Super Rugby
Crusaders half-back Heinz breaks leg
January 24, 2015
Willi Heinz will face a long stint on the sideline © Getty Images
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Crusaders half-back Willi Heinz is set for a lengthy stint on the sidelines after breaking his left leg in a Super Rugby pre-season hit-out against the Highlanders in Timaru.

Heinz, who is entering his sixth season with the Crusaders, was stretchered off after injuring his left leg in the second quarter of the match on Saturday. There was further bad news for the seven-time champions, who host the Melbourne Rebels on February 13 in the opening fixture of the 2015 season.

Fijian winger Jone Macilai, recruited after strong performances for Northland in last year's national provincial championship, suffered a suspected broken arm.

Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder said he was going to ask former All Blacks half-back Ellis if he could break his contract , with Japanese club Kobe Steelers and return to New Zealand. Kobe are top of the Japanese domestic competition and Ellis may be required to remain until early March if they continue through to the grand final.

The Highlanders won the match 29-26.

© AAP

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