All Blacks scrumhalf Cam Roigard set for long injury layoff

The nippy No.9 was a revelation for the three-time World Champions at the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France, scoring two sensational individual tries. With long-time scrumhalf Aaron Smith hanging up his boots following the global showpiece, Roigard was primed to make the position his own.

However, after getting injured in the Hurricanes' clash against the Highlanders this past weekend, he faces several months of recovery. 

"Hurricanes halfback Cam Roigard has suffered a rupture to his left patella tendon which will see the All Black sidelined for a lengthy period," confirmed the Wellington franchise. 

"The injury occurred during the Round Six Super Rugby Pacific game against the Highlanders last Saturday (30 March) in Dunedin.

"The 23-year-old underwent successful surgery in Auckland yesterday (2 April) to repair this injury. Provided all goes well with his rehabilitation he could be back as soon as six months from now.

"The Hurricanes are thankful for all the support and kind messages being sent Cam's way."

Roigard will kiss the 2024 Rugby Championship, though maybe in contention for the All Blacks' blockbuster year-end tour where they face Japan, England, Ireland, France and Italy in five consecutive weekends.

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