Ollie Norris ruled out of All Blacks Tour

The All Blacks have suffered another injury setback ahead of their four-Test series against South Africa, with prop Ollie Norris ruled out of the remainder of the tour.

Norris will return to New Zealand after sustaining a knee cartilage injury and is expected to spend approximately six weeks on the sidelines.

Ollie Norris Suffers Knee Injury

Norris’ departure further tests New Zealand’s front-row depth as the All Blacks prepare for the opening Test against the Springboks in Johannesburg.

The prop will return home to begin his rehabilitation, with the All Blacks confirming that a replacement front-rower will be announced in due course.

Norris becomes the latest player to have his South African tour cut short following injuries to Billy Proctor, George Bell and Caleb Clarke.

Noah Hotham Joins All Blacks Squad

While Norris heads home, Canterbury and Crusaders halfback Noah Hotham has been called into the touring squad as injury cover for Cortez Ratima.

Ratima suffered a knee injury during New Zealand’s 50-19 victory over the Bulls at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria and remains under assessment.

Hotham’s arrival gives the All Blacks additional depth at scrum-half as they prepare to move into the Test portion of Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry tour.

All Blacks Prepare for Springboks Test

New Zealand have completed their opening three provincial fixtures against the Stormers, Sharks and Bulls and now turn their attention to the world champion Springboks.

The first of four Tests between the traditional rivals will take place at Ellis Park in Johannesburg on Saturday, August 22.