Dan Carter out injured - feels like Jonny all over again

There is no doubt that the modern 10s throw themselves around far more than their predecessors. The modern game of rugby seeks to exploit defensive weaknesses and historically it was that guy stood at 10.

Some coaches have attempted to hide their 10s in defence; we saw Sale try this with Cipriani. Other coaches have encouraged their 10 to behave like a loose forward; a great example is Jonny Wilkinson.

England's current 10 was brought up playing Rugby League and is strong in defence; but needs to watch his discipline. Any lack of composure could result in George Ford becoming no.1.

Many of us remember how Wilkinson made us cringe as he put in "massive hits" but we anxiously waited to see if he regained his feet and was fit to continue. His final years at Toulon appeared to result in fewer injuries but what of the player we all believed would follow in his footsteps?

Over to our reporter in New Zealand, Scott Donaldson.

All Blacks star Dan Carter's ankle injury is worse than expected and he will miss at least the first two Rugby Championship tests of the season, is this good or bad for the All Blacks? 

Sure, they will miss the mercurial Carter, but they have depth with the likes of Aaron Cruden, Beauden Barrett and even Colin Slade to replace him. Surely giving these young guys some more experience before the Rugby World Cup 2015 and beyond is actually a good thing for the All Blacks?

This latest injury is frustrating and places doubt over Dan Carter's future in the All Blacks. There are other older members of the All Blacks squad also suffering with regular injuries like Richie McCaw. 

This does potentially leave the All Blacks a little vulnerable as it could be risky taking such injury-prone players into a tournament like the Rugby World Cup 2015. Welcome to the 30s guys, when the body keeps falling apart!

It puts the longevity of iron men like Brad Thorn into perspective! So Scott is bound to ask TalkingRugbyUnion followers:

Is it a good or bad thing for the All Blacks that Dan Carter is injured again? Do you think he will last to the Rugby World Cup 2015?