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Blackadder Ruled Out For All Blacks

Ethan Blackadder will be unavailable for the All Blacks this year after sustaining a serious shoulder injury.

The nine-test All Black sustained the injury during the Crusaders’ 37-15 win over the Queensland Reds in the Super Rugby Pacific quarterfinal in Christchurch last Friday night. Scans later confirmed a dislocated shoulder.

Blackadder will be sidelined for the remainder of the year and will aim to return to play at the start of next season.

“We really feel for Ethan, who has been in incredible form, and is such a hardworking and well respected member of this team,” said Crusaders coach Scott Robertson.

Blackadder had a good chance to be included in the All Blacks’ 36-man squad for the domestic three-test series against Ireland after his fine recent form.

The 27-year-old, who was voted by his fellow players and coaches as the Crusaders’ best player recently, can play in all three positions in the back row and could have been an asset to the All Blacks as they look to avenge their 29-20 loss to Ireland in Dublin in November.

/Stewart
Sports news editor