Backline injury crisis for Auckland

Auckland coach Pat Lam

Auckland have been struck with a backline injury crisis ahead of their top six Air New Zealand Cup rugby clash with Waikato at Eden Park on Saturday night.

Although the top qualifiers for the second phase of the competition had a bye last weekend, a clutch of players have not got over injuries suffered during their final pool game against North Harbour.

Tasesa Lavea (calf) and Isa Nacewa (knee) are both unavailable so 19-year-old pivot Lachie Munro will make his run-on debut for the reigning champions.

Outside him Jamie Helleur, who sustained a leg injury against Wellington last month, has been bracketed with another promising rookie Roimata Hansell-Pune.

David Smith and Benson Stanley have both been named on the left wing although coach Pat Lam was optimistic the former would recover from a calf injury to fill the berth usually filled by resting All Black Joe Rokocoko.

The All Blacks contingent, including midfielders Sam Tuitupou, Isaia Toeava and wing Doug Howlett, will be available for selection next week when Auckland host Otago at Eden Park.

In the pack, Brad Mika has been suffering from a virus and has been bracketed with Joe Tekori though he did take part in training today.

Lam hoped to finalise his team tomorrow.

Waikato lost first five-eighth Stephen Donald last night after the New Zealand Rugby Union judiciary banned him for a week following his red card for two high tackles against Northland last week.

He will be replaced by New Zealand colt Willie Ripia.

Auckland:

Brent Ward, James Somerset, Ben Atiga, Jamie Helleur/Roimata Hansell-Pune, David Smith/Benson Stanley, Lachie Munro, Steve Devine (captain), Andrew Blowers, Daniel Braid, Jerome Kaino, Kurtis Haiu, Brad Mika/Joe Tekori, John Afoa, Derren Witcombe, Saimone Taumoepeau.

Reserves:

Nick White, Chris Heard, Joe Tekori/Brad Mika, Onosa'i Tololima-Auva'a, Taniela Moa, Roimata Hansell-Pune/Brenton Helleur, Benson Stanley/Lio Taliu.

- NZPA