Jordie Barrett doubtful for New Zealand's World Cup opener against France

New Zealand centre Jordie Barrett is a doubtful starter for the Rugby World Cup opener against France to be played at Stade de France on Friday.

The news adds further blow to the All Blacks, who are already without lock Brodie Retallick, flanker Shannon Frizell and prop Tyrel Lomax due to injuries for their first game in the group stage.

Barrett, who was set to start alongside Rieko Ioane has sustained a 'knee niggle' during a training session and now facing an uphill task to prove his fitness ahead of the game against the Les Bleus according to assistant coach Scott McLeod.

“He’s got a niggle in his left knee,” said McLeod.

“We’re just taking precautions really. He doesn’t have to train today.

”It’s still early in the week, so we’ll wait and see how he responds today and tomorrow to a little bit more treatment.

“It’s just a niggle he picked up along the way, and he’s just felt it a little bit more this week.”

If Barrett misses out on the selection then head coach Ian Foster is likely to opt for Anton Lienert-Brown or David Havili in the starting line up against France, who are also hampered by injuries.

Paul Willemse and Romain Ntamack are already out of the Rugby World Cup due to injuries while prop Cyril Baille is set to miss the start of the tournament. Centre Jonathan Danty is recovering from a thigh injury and is doubtful for the Friday's game against New Zealand.