Crusaders suffer Cullen Grace blow

Crusaders have been dealt a blow ahead of the fourth round Super Rugby Aotearoa against Highlanders with flanker Cullen Grace sidelined with an injury.

Grace, who played all 80 minutes in their previous game against Chiefs suffered a thumb injury at the end of the match and will now go under the knife which will keep him out of action for a lengthy period.

“Cullen Grace, 20, injured his right thumb towards the end of the Chiefs game on Sunday,” read a statement from Crusaders.

“Subsequent investigation showed he has sustained a fracture at the base of his thumb which will require surgery to repair.

“He will undergo surgery today [Tuesday], and his return to play timeframe will be clearer after this procedure.

“We will advise an injury replacement for Cullen when this detail is confirmed.”

Crusaders currently are at second place in the Super Rugby Aotearoa with two wins from as many games and will face Highlanders next in the fourth round on 4th July.