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Crusaders loose forward Ethan Blackadder will miss the rest of the season after scans confirmed he will need to undergo shoulder surgery.
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The 27-year-old dislocated his left shoulder in last week’s Super Rugby Pacific quarter-final against the Queensland Reds in Christchurch and the Crusaders confirmed the injury diagnosis.
Blackadder was an All Black debutant in 2021 and went on to feature in nine tests, playing at blindside and openside throughout the season.
His injury will potentially open the door for a new loose forward option on Monday when the All Blacks name their squad for the upcoming three-test series against Ireland.
Crusaders coach Scott Robertson said: “We really feel for Ethan, who has been in incredible form, and is such a hardworking and well-respected member of this team.”
“Our medical team will do what they do best and ensure he has everything he needs to be right for the 2023 season. In the meantime, he’ll find other ways to contribute to our group, as Ethan always does.”
The Crusaders have named Tom Christie as Blackadder’s replacement at No 7 for their semi-final clash against the Chiefs this weekend.
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Blackadder is expected to return to start the 2023 Super Rugby Pacific season next year.
