Barrett blow for All Blacks following 'surgical treatment'

NEWS: All Black captain Scott Barrett is currently on the sidelines after he underwent finger surgery following his team's 47-5 win over Fiji last Saturday.

There is no clear timeline on when Barrett will be able to make his return to play and he's now in doubt for the start of the upcoming Rugby Championship next month.

Barrett, who boasts 72 caps for his country, has started in all three Tests since being named captain by new head coach Scott Robertson - including a 2-0 home series win over England.

With Barrett possibly out, the All Blacks could name a new captain for their Rugby Championship opening match against Argentina in Wellington on August 10.

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"Scott Barrett injured a finger during the All Blacks Test against Fiji in San Diego which has required a surgical treatment after his return to New Zealand," a New Zealand Rugby statement said.

"The injury is now being assessed."

Barrett's absence is a massive blow for New Zealand, considering the loss of veteran locks Samuel Whitelock and Brodie Retallick, who announced their international retirements after the 2023 World Cup.

Younger brother and centre Jordie Barrett stands in line to take over the captain's armband as does loose forward Ardie Savea who are currently serving as the team's vice-captains.

A 36-man All Blacks squad for the upcoming Rugby Championship will be named on Sunday.