Ireland v New Zealand
Savea in doubt for Ireland Test
November 22, 2013
Savea missed the first two Tests of New Zealand's November tour and is in doubt for their final Test against Ireland © Getty Images
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Prolific wing Julian Savea is in doubt for the All Blacks' Test against Ireland after twisting his knee awkwardly at training. Savea's right knee buckled slightly after claiming a kick late in their team session on Thursday and he limped out in obvious pain.

The 23-year-old applied ice to the injury while Charles Piutau ran in his place for the final 15 minutes. Piutau is the logical replacement for Savea in Saturday's Test at Dublin if the injury proves to be serious.

No diagnosis was forthcoming from All Blacks management. Savea missed the first two Tests of the New Zealand's season-ending tour this month. He was among a group of senior players rested from the opener against Japan in Tokyo and missed the win over France a week later after contracting an illness. He required treatment for a lung infection at a Paris hospital.

Savea was restored for last weekend's 30-22 win over England at Twickenham and shone, scoring two tries and earning man of the match honours. Piutau has started all three Tests on tour in impressive fashion and was a surprise initial omission from this week's side.

© AAP

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