All Blacks skipper Sam Cane out for up to 6 months

New Zealand's captain Sam Cane faces an extended period out of the game with a chest muscle tear - Steven SAPHORE - AFP

WELLINGTON (AFP): All Blacks captain Sam Cane revealed on Thursday he will be sidelined for up to six months with a pectoral muscle tear, ruling him out of Super Rugby and most of the international season.

Cane suffered the chest muscle injury in Waikato Chiefs’ win over Auckland Blues on Saturday and will undergo surgery next week.

“I’ll be out for a wee while, hopefully no longer than six months,” he said.

“I’m obviously disappointed but really positive that it’s an easy fix. I’m looking forward to getting into some rehab post-surgery and doing that really well, so I am coming back in good shape.” 

The All Blacks hope to play a 15-Test schedule this year, including hosting Italy and Fiji in July, the Rugby Championship and a northern hemisphere tour.

Cane has previously returned from a broken neck that kept him out the game for almost a year and numerous concussions.