Aaron Cruden doubtful for Crusaders clash

All Blacks fly-half Aaron Cruden's participation is doubtful for the Chiefs' Super Rugby clash against the Crusaders in Suva on Friday.

The 27-year-old was stretchered off the field during the second Test against Wales in Wellington after being tackled by Wales lock Luke Charteris.

Cruden herd a "crack" in his neck after landing awkwardly head-down, leading to scare of a serious injury. However, after being rushed to the hospital, X-ray reports suggested Cruden escaped without any serious injury.

As a precautionary measure, the All Blacks coach Steve Hansen rested his regular fly-half giving an opportunity to Beauden Barrett in the final Test in Dunedin.

Although Cruden has been named in Chiefs' touring squad, the doubts on him featuring in the starting XV remain as the fly-half awaits for their first contact session in Fiji.

"Probably first thing tomorrow I'll get into a little bit of contact stuff, and hit the pads, and see how I respond the following day.

"Fingers crossed it all goes well."

The Chiefs left for Suva on Tuesday morning.