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Last Updated: Sunday, 10 June 2007, 09:16 GMT 10:16 UK
All Blacks face second-row crisis
Ali Williams
Williams broke his jaw in a collision with France's Sebastien Chabal
New Zealand are likely to be without locks Ali Williams and Keith Robinson for the upcoming Tri-Nations series.

Williams broke his jaw in Saturday's record 61-10 demolition of France, while Robinson injured his calf muscle in the pre-match warm-up.

Both should be fit for the World Cup but the All Blacks have already lost James Ryan and Jason Eaton to injuries.

Greg Rawlinson and Ross Filipo have been added to the squad for next Saturday's one-off Test against Canada.

The pair were called up from the Junior All Blacks team, which is currently playing in the Pacific Nations Cup tournament.

South African-born Rawlinson, who is leaving Auckland Blues to join Worcester in the England next season, played two Tests last season while Canterbury Crusaders lock Filipo is uncapped.

"The injuries are a major concern for us," said All Blacks coach Graham Henry.

"It looks like we will be without both Keith and Ali for the Tri-Nations now.

"However, it gives us a chance to test the depth of locks in the country."

606: DEBATE

Henry said it was still too early to speculate on the make-up of his team for the Tri-Nations until after the All Blacks play Canada next weekend.

"You don't like seeing your people injured, but you've got to see the silver lining as well and make the most of it," added All Blacks assistant coach Wayne Smith.

The Tri-Nations begins with South Africa v Australia in Cape Town on 16 June. New Zealand kick-off their campaign against the Springboks in Durban on 23 June.

SEE ALSO
NZ 61-10 France
09 Jun 07 |  Rugby Union
New Zealand 42-11 France
02 Jun 07 |  Rugby Union
Henry slams under-strength tours
29 May 07 |  Rugby Union
Eaton adds to NZ's lock problems
28 Apr 07 |  Rugby Union
NZ lock Jack signs for Saracens
21 Apr 07 |  Saracens
Rugby union positions guide
05 Feb 07 |  Laws & Equipment


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