Rugby: Eaton out of Super 14

Jason Eaton is the second All Black lock to be ruled out of the Super 14 through injury. Photo / Getty Images

Hurricanes lock Jason Eaton has been ruled out of the rest of the Super 14 season after rupturing the anterior cruciate ligament on his right knee in the game against the Lions at the weekend.

Backs Tamati Ellison and Conrad Smith have also been ruled out of the side's South African tour opener against the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein with minor injuries.

Alapati Leiua and Brett Mather have been brought in from the Hurricanes wider training group. James Broadhurst replaces Eaton, while lock Jeremy Thrush also returns from injury.

With the Canes off to South Africa for a three match tour, the timing could not be worse for coach Colin Cooper. He says it is devastating news for Eaton, but he still plans to use his All Black lock when the side returns home. He says they will use Eaton's expertise to help put together their attacking line outs.

Eaton joins Ali Williams as the second All Blacks lock ruled out for the season.

- NEWSTALK ZB