All Blacks Prop ruled out of South African tour

Earlier today the All Blacks revealed that prop Ethan de Groot will play no part in those Tests. The 26-year-old is currently battling a neck injury and he will continue his rehabilitation in New Zealand. Crusaders prop George Bower will join the squad as injury cover.

Head coach Scott Robertson revealed that assistant coach Leon MacDonald left his staff on the eve of their trip to South Africa due to a clash of coaching styles.

New Zealand will face the Springboks at Ellis Park next weekend on August 31 before they meet again in Cape Town on September 7.