New Zealand's Ofa Tu'ungafasi to miss South Africa tour

New Zealand will miss the services of prop Ofa Tu’ungafasi for the South Africa leg of the Rugby Championship following an injury.

The 30-year-old is currently recovering from a neck problem and will remain in New Zealand as the squad head to Mbombela Stadium for the opening game on 6th August.

He now joins the injured list of Brodie Retallick, Jack Goodhue and Nepo Laulala as the All Blacks look to bounce back from the series defeat against Ireland.

Uncapped Crusaders prop Fletcher Newell has been included in the squad as a replacement for Tu’ungafasi.

"It's just an awesome moment and I really can't put any words together at the moment," said Newell.

"I pretty much rung my whole family after. It's pretty surreal. Everyone was really really happy and we shared some pretty good moments.

"There's a number of Crusaders and leaders in that environment. I'm really excited to connect with them like I had all season. It is quite daunting but I just can't wait to get in there and learn from everyone."

New Zealand's tour of South Africa will come to an end with the second round clash scheduled on 13th August at Emirates Airlines Park.