Face injury ruins McLeod's prospects

By CHRIS RATTUE

Waikato midfield back Scott McLeod's NPC season looks to be over after he fractured a cheekbone during Saturday's win over Otago.

The 28-year-old former test back collided with team-mate David Hill 15 minutes from the end of the match at Hamilton, and although he stayed on the field, the injury has proved to be serious.

Doctors told McLeod that there were sharp bone chips that could cause serious injury.

He had an operation on Monday.

McLeod, who played 10 tests from 1996 to 1998, was hoping for a recall to the national side for the tour to Ireland, Scotland and Argentina.

He has been an imposing presence for Waikato, but he is now sidelined for five weeks.

He will miss the Mooloos' final matches against Southland and Canterbury, and potentially the finals series.

"I was really enjoying the NPC," McLeod said. "I looked forward to playing against Pita [Alatini] to show what I could do, and was looking forward to matching up against Canterbury as well.

"I'll be carrying the water bottles for now and doing everything I can to help us in the remaining games."