KEY POINTS:
The start of the Super 14 season is still two weeks away but injuries are already causing problems for New Zealand sides.
The Chiefs were dealt the biggest blow today with first five-eighth Tasesa Lavea being ruled out for the season.
Crusaders lock Ross Filipo will miss at least the first five rounds of the competition after learning he requires back surgery, while Blues forwards Troy Flavell and Daniel Braid are battling to be fit for the series opener.
Lavea suffered a torn foot ligament during a pre-season game against the Highlanders last weekend and will undergo surgery next Tuesday.
The Chiefs will make a decision on a replacement for Lavea next week.
Three test All Blacks lock Filipo needs an operation to mend a bulging disc in his neck/shoulder area and is expected to be unavailable until at least round five of the competition.
Filipo was troubled by the injury during the Air New Zealand Cup last season and only managed a solitary appearance for Wellington.
Canterbury under&45;21 lock James Broadhurst has been promoted from the wider training squad for the early stages of the competition although the Crusaders also have several experienced locking options.
Ali Williams arrived from the Blues this season should be a fixture while former dual international Brad Thorn and Canterbury's Michael Paterson are candidates to partner the World Cup All Black.
Blindside flanker Reuben Thorne, who is recovering from a calf injury, is also at home at lock.
Meanwhile, Blues Skipper Flavell is hoping his bruised foot will recover in time for their first match against the Chiefs.
There were concerns Flavell might have to sit out the first few weeks of the competition after damaging his foot in a trail game but scans revealed otherwise.
The prognosis is less positive for flanker Braid, who is unlikely to play against the Chiefs as he continues his recuperation from shoulder surgery.
- NZ HERALD STAFF, NZPA
