Post by : Rameen Ariff

New Zealand lock Patrick Tuipulotu is expected to remain sidelined until May as he continues recovering from a severe shoulder injury that forced him out of the All Blacks’ season-ending tour. The experienced 56-test forward suffered a complex AC (acromioclavicular) joint injury, leaving him with no choice but to begin an early and lengthy rehabilitation.

Tuipulotu, who will now have a delayed start to the Auckland Blues’ Super Rugby season, described the injury as one of the toughest setbacks of his career. Speaking to local media with his right arm supported in a sling, he revealed how serious the damage was.

He said his shoulder “looked like it was hanging off” because the AC joint was protruding so severely. Doctors advised immediate surgery and strict recovery precautions to ensure the joint heals properly. “The surgeon is very pedantic about getting it right,” the 32-year-old said. “I’m pretty keen on that too.”

This injury follows an already difficult year for Tuipulotu, who previously missed six weeks of play due to a facial fracture suffered during the Rugby Championship. The repeated setbacks have raised concerns about his workload, but the Blues remain confident he will return strong once his rehabilitation is complete.

Meanwhile, All Blacks prop Ofa Tu’ungafasi is looking more hopeful ahead of the 2025 Super Rugby season. The 33-year-old underwent surgery to remove bone spurs from his neck — an issue caused by long-term wear and tear rather than a single on-field incident. Tu’ungafasi said he considers himself fortunate that the problem did not stem from a tackle or scrum, adding that he hopes to be fit in time for the season opener in February.

Both players remain key figures in New Zealand rugby, and their recovery will be closely watched by fans ahead of an intense 2025 Super Rugby campaign. With Tuipulotu working toward a May return and Tu’ungafasi aiming for early-season action, the Blues expect a stronger, more stable squad as the competition progresses.

#Sports News