New Zealand Rugby
Cruden escapes knee surgery
ESPNscrum Staff
October 29, 2011
New Zealand's Aaron Cruden walks on crutches after the World Cup final, New Zealand v France, Rugby World Cup, Eden Park, Auckland, New Zealand, October 23, 2011
Aaron Cruden has been given an eight-week recovery prognosis © Getty Images
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All Blacks fly-half Aaron Cruden should be fit to start the new Super Rugby season with the Chiefs after it was confirmed that he would not require surgery on his injured knee.

The 22-year-old hyper-extended his right knee in the 34th minute of the All Blacks' 8-7 triumph over France in the Rugby World Cup Final at Eden Park last weekend.

Although he could miss much of the Chiefs pre-season preparations, Cruden should have regained full fitness in time for the Chiefs' opening Super Rugby fixture against the Highlanders in Hamilton on February 25.

"Aaron saw a specialist in Auckland today who confirmed that he won't require surgery," All Blacks doctor Deb Robinson said. "He will have to wear a knee brace for the next three to four weeks before he gradually returns to training over the following month, and is expected to make a full recovery."

New Chiefs coach Dave Rennie added: "It will be about eight to nine weeks before he's back to full health, so that's pretty good."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.

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