New Zealand Rugby
Donald ruled out for four months
Scrum.com
June 1, 2010
Chiefs fly-half Stephen Donald watches on, Chiefs v Cheetahs, Super 14, Waikato Stadium, Hamilton, New Zealand, April 23, 2010
Chiefs fly-half Stephen Donald is out for four months © Getty Images
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Players/Officials: Stephen Donald
Tournaments/Tours: ITM Cup
Teams: New Zealand | Waikato

A bad week for Chiefs fly-half Stephen Donald has continued with the news that he will miss the next four months of action after undergoing surgery to repair a torn chest muscle.

Donald, who has 19 caps for New Zealand, will therefore be out of contention for the Tri-Nations. He was however omitted from the first All Black squad of the year to face Ireland and Wales prior to his injury in favour of Hurricanes youngster Aaron Cruden.

Donald sustained the injury, a tear to his pectoralis major muscle, while playing for his club rugby side University in Hamilton on Saturday.

There was another blow for Waikato as they prepare for their domestic campaign, with utility back Callum Bruce confirming a move to Japanese club Cannon on a two-year deal. The former Otago and Highlanders back would have been an option to cover for Donald, with this role now set to go to Brumbies loan signing Christian Lealiifano.

"Brucey has been a solid campaigner for Waikato over the past two years. His leadership and professionalism was second to none," coach Chris Gibbes said. "He filled an important role for Waikato at the end of last year, and was a big influence on turning our season around. He'll be a loss for Waikato, but we wish him all the best for his new career in Japan."

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