One-time Rugby World Cup saviour Aaron Cruden has avoided surgery and is on the comeback trail from his knee injury.
The 22-year-old became the third victim of the All Blacks' first five-eighths injury jinx when he limped off after 34 minutes in the World Cup final victory over France.
All Blacks' doctor Deb Robinson said Cruden was in Auckland today (Friday) to see a specialist, who confirmed the playmaker wouldn't have to go under the knife.
"He will have to wear a knee brace for the next three to four weeks before he gradually returns to training over the following month, and is expected to make a full recovery," Dr Robinson said.
