Discus: Winchester injures arm

New Zealand hopes of a Commonwealth Games gold medal from powerful discus thrower Ian Winchester have taken a dive.

The Auckland-based national recordholder has torn a muscle in his throwing arm while competing in a track and field international in Rotterdam.

It is a major blow for the 19-strong track team because Winchester was ranked second in the Commonwealth after a 65.05m throw in California in May.

Athletics manager Ken Simpson said Winchester would have to prove his fitness when he reached the Games Village in Manchester.