League: Vagana returns home with broken leg

The Kiwis' stunning Tri-Nations rugby league final win over Australia came at some cost for five-eighth Nigel Vagana.

Vagana has been diagnosed with a broken leg suffered during the final, won 24-0 by New Zealand in England on Sunday.

He was assisted from the field in Leeds after falling awkwardly in a tackle in the second half.

Vagana, 30, has returned to Australia and is expected to undergo surgery, before a spell on the sidelines for rehabilitation.

He is thought to be likely to be ready for the start of the next National Rugby League season with the Sharks.

- NZPA