All Blacks winger Caleb Clarke has been ruled out of his side’s forthcoming Test at Twickenham Stadium after failing a head-injury assessment in the wake of last weekend’s 25-17 victory over Scotland.
His absence comes amidst another frustrating injury spell, following an ankle problem that restricted his appearances earlier in the year.
Clarke, who sustained a knock to the head during the second half at Murrayfield, is facing the mandatory 12-day stand-down period and will therefore miss the match against England.
Despite this setback, the squad maintains that no other fresh concerns emerged from the Scotland game, with the exception of captain Scott Barrett still being monitored after a leg laceration he sustained earlier this month.
Assistant coach Jason Holland admitted the squad must now reshuffle their back-three options for the clash.
One option under consideration is Sevu Reece, who has rejoined the squad and is in contention to fill the vacated wing role.
Following the game against England, the All Blacks will conclude the tour with a clash against Wales in Cardiff on 22nd November.