New Zealand
All Blacks lock Tuipulotu ruled out of World Cup
ESPN Staff
June 2, 2015
Patrick Tuipulotu has opted to undergo season-ending hip surgery © Getty Images
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All Blacks forward Patrick Tuipulotu will play no part in this year's Rugby World Cup after opting to undergo surgery on a developmental hip defect.

The Blues forward will undergo surgery on both hips and will not play again this season in what is a significant blow to New Zealand's World Cup defence.

"I am naturally gutted that this takes me out of consideration for the All Blacks season and the Rugby World Cup, but this is the best thing to do long term," Tuipulotu said. "I am only 22 and I could be around for two more World Cups. The best thing for me and my well-being is to have this surgery now which gives me the time I need to rehab properly and come back stronger, fitter and better."

The loss of Tuipulotu rounds out a disastrous run with injury for the struggling Blues with the Auckland franchise having already been without All Blacks Jerome Kaino, Charles Piutau, Charlie Faumuina and Steven Luatua for large portions of the season.

The All Blacks, too, have already experienced injury concerns at lock with reigning World Rugby Player of the Year Brodie Retallick still to return from a shoulder injury.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd

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