The spanking received against South Africa (35-7) could cost New Zealand dearly. In addition to probably having to do without the services of Scott Barrett excluded because of an illicit clearing of Malcolm Marx (his gesture will be studied by the disciplinary committee and could earn him a suspension), the All Blacks fear having to give up on the presence of Tyrel Lomax, injured against the Boks.
Out in the first half, the prop had to undergo 30 stitches in his leg due to a large gash hitting the muscle. Ian Foster, the New Zealand coach, deemed his presence “unlikely” against the Blues in the opening match of the World Cup on September 8.
The All Blacks will also be without Brodie Retallick and Shannon Frizell, with both men on the flank with knee and hamstring injuries respectively.
