All Blacks: Jane confirmed to start first test on wing

Cory Jane. Photo / Kenny Rodger

Cory Jane will get his first test start on the wing after injuries bit even further into the All Black resources for tomorrow's test against France in Dunedin.

Comeback wing Rudi Wulf damaged his left shoulder in a training ground collision yesterday.

Today All Blacks doctor Deb Robinson confirmed that x-rays have shown Wulf has a fracture in his shoulder bone. He is expected to require about six weeks away from all rugby to recover.

The outcome means Counties-Manukau flyer Lelia Masaga moves on to the bench for tomorrow's test.

Wulf's troubles compounded the selection problems on the wing with Sitiveni Sivivatu out of action with repeat shoulder damage and his future this season uncertain. He is doing some rehabilitation work and is due to meet the All Black medical staff next week in Wellington for a further assessment.

Another player who could have covered the wing problems, Richard Kahui, has been booked in for shoulder surgery which will remove him from rugby until next year.

"It is frustrating," new skipper Mils Muliaina said, "disappointing for Rudi as I know how much he was excited about this. I am feeling for him. When Lelia arrives it will be all about him finding his feet when he gets here."

When the squad was chosen, coach Graham Henry was effusive about Cory Jane's versatile talents, his speed, his skill at the tackled ball and mentioned he could easily cover wing. That day has come much sooner than anyone thought.

Jane went on tour at the end of last year where he played from the bench against the Wallabiesand Scotland beforestarting at fullback in the midweek match against Munster.

A swag of choices were open to the All Blacks when Wulf was hurt. The versatility of Isaia Toeava, Muliaina, Jane, Ma'a Nonu and Luke McAlister offered them many options but it was felt it would be counter-productive to make more than one alteration.

Senior wing Joe Rokocoko has been in sketchy form this season but his experience of 52 tests will be needed even more with the forced changes.

- additional reporting by Wynne Gray and Steven Orsbourn