Rugby: Auckland mired in injury

Andrew Van der Heijden. Photo / Getty Images

Just when he'd have rather fancied a smooth run-up to this weekend's semifinal against Waikato, Auckland coach Mark Anscombe is facing injury-induced selection issues.

He is certainly without lock Andrew van der Heijden, a strong presence for Auckland in the ITM Cup. Van der Heijden broke an arm in the 49-10 win over Tasman at Eden Park on Sunday, the bonus-point win ensuring Auckland of a home semifinal.

The former Counties Manukau captain is to have surgery today.

Van der Heijden has been an influential figure in Auckland's cup campaign, starting 12 of Auckland's 13 round robin games.

Wing Dave Thomas, another of Sunday's starting 15, has damaged a tendon in a foot and is no sure thing for Saturday night's semifinal.

A regular in the matchday 22 this season, Thomas will be monitored by Auckland's medical staff this week.

Experienced midfield back Ben Atiga has also thrown a curve ball into Auckland's preparations.

He was thought to have fractured a thumb just before halftime against Tasman. But initial assessments didn't reveal a crack. There is plenty of pain and he is having an MRI scan on the thumb today or tomorrow.

Atiga has lost his place to returning All Black Isaia Toeava in recent weeks, but with Toeava taking in the delights of Hong Kong with the All Black squad this week, Atiga's availability would be a useful asset for Anscombe.

He will name his team on Thursday.

* The game will be played at the earlier than usual time of 7.05pm at Eden Park to allow for the All Blacks-Wallabies test later that night.