Rugby: Speight to replace Sivivatu

Henry Speight. Photo / Supplied

Henry Speight will replace All Black Sitiveni Sivivatu at wing in Waikato's provincial rugby semi-final against Auckland tonight.

Sivivatu was ruled out of the All Blacks end of year tour overnight after he injured a knee in practice during the week.

An MRI scan revealed Sivivatu had a loose bony fragment in his knee and might need an arthroscopy, Waikato coach Chris Gibbes said.

The 43-test wing returned to action last week after a five month rehabilitation following shoulder surgery required after the Super 14 ended in May.

Sivivatu has been schedule to fly out to join the team for the Grand Slam leg of the tour in the UK and Ireland straight after the semifinal.

But All Black coach Graham Henry revealed the 28-year-old had been withdrawn after a scan confirmed the extent of an injury to his left knee.

"It's hugely disappointing for Siti to suffer another injury straight after recovering from his shoulder surgery," Henry said.

Henry said at this stage a replacement for Sivivatu would not join the 29-man squad for the four remaining tests after tonight's final Bledisloe Cup international of the year against the Wallabies at Hong Kong Stadium tonight (9.30pmNZT).

Joe Rokocoko, Cory Jane and Hosea Gear are the wings included in the tour party while utility back Isaia Toeava could also cover the position if required.

- NZPA