ReportGeneralRugby365 · SuperSport Rugby15 Aug· updated 15 Aug

Clarke becomes third All Black to head home early as injury toll mounts

Winger Caleb Clarke is the third All Black to leave the tour early, ruled out of the Springbok series with a shoulder tendon injury suffered against the Sharks. Rennie will not bring in a replacement.

Caleb Clarke has been ruled out of the four-Test series against the Springboks after scans confirmed a shoulder tendon injury sustained during New Zealand's 54-0 midweek win over the Sharks in Durban. The winger will return home for surgery, with no timeline given for his recovery.

Coach Dave Rennie has opted against calling up a replacement, saying the squad's existing outside back cover is sufficient unless further injuries force his hand.

Clarke is the third tourist to cut his trip short. Billy Proctor departed after injuring his shoulder in the opening tour match against the Stormers in Cape Town, and was replaced by Richie Mo'unga. Hooker George Bell followed after a calf injury at training, with uncapped Bradley Slater called in as cover. Unlike those two, Clarke will not be replaced.

The first Test against the Springboks kicks off at Ellis Park on 22 August.

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