All Blacks' Quinn Tupaea sidelined for remainder of 2022

New Zealand midfielder Quinn Tupaea is set to be ruled out for the remainder of the year following his injury in the Bledisloe Cup game against Australia in Melbourne on Thursday.

Tupaea suffered a ruptured medial cruciate ligament in his left knee after being struck by Darcy Swain, who was yellow carded in the 36th minute.

All Blacks head coach Ian Foster felt the tackle from Swain was illegal and revealed that Tupaea could be out for a lengthy period as he will be needing a surgery.

“You’re not allowed to target legs on the side at cleanout past the ball. The rules are pretty clear.”

Meanwhile, Australia head coach Dave Rennie expressed displeasure over the yellow card decision as he believes it was not intentional from the 25-year-old.

“I’m not convinced about Darcy’s [yellow card],” said Rennie.

“It was certainly nothing intentional. Ironically, he got neck-rolled prior to him cleaning out, but that wasn’t picked up.”

A late try from Jordie Barrett ensured New Zealand claimed the Bledisloe Cup for the 20th consecutive year after a 19-17 victory. The win also extended New Zealand's lead in the Rugby Championship as they now have 14 points from five matches.