Dane Coles likely to be sidelined for up to six months with knee injury

by Frank Nickson Tuesday 14 November 2017

Dane Coles twisted his knee during the game against France

©PA

New Zealand are likely to miss the services of hooker Dane Coles for up to six months following a knee injury.

The 30-year-old sustained the blow during the opening game of the November Tests against France last weekend which the All Blacks went on to win 16-36.

Coles, who scored the opening try in the game in the eighth minute was forced off the field 15 minutes later following a twisted knee and will head back to New Zealand for a surgery.

The news was confirmed by the official Twitter handle of New Zealand Rugby.

"Head coach Steve Hansen says he will require an operation with a likely four to six-month recovery," read the tweet.

Coles has played 56 Tests for New Zealand since his debut in 2012 that includes six World Cup games as well.

New Zealand will take on France on Tuesday following which they will lock horns with Scotland and Wales in the final two games of their European tour.