Troy Flavell out of S14 but still in ABs contention

April 19, 2006

Blues forward Troy Flavell has been ruled out the rest of the Super 14 rugby season with injury but remains in the frame for All Blacks selection.

The shoulder injury Flavell suffered during the Blues' defeat of the Western Force last Friday will sideline him for four to six weeks according to team doctor Peter Coleman.

A scan revealed the strapping blindside flanker had ruptured a tendon in his left shoulder.

Coleman yesterday said he was relieved the injury was only to the tendon, because he was initially concerned that Flavell had also dislocated his shoulder.

"This is still a significant injury, but one that with rehabilitation Troy will be able to fully recover from," Coleman said in a statement.

Flavell's rehabilitation will be monitored by the surgeon and Blues medical staff over coming weeks.

If he recovers as expected, he may be in contention for the giant All Blacks squad of 39 announced late next month for two home tests against Ireland and one against Argentina in Buenos Aires.

Flavell, 29, played 15 tests in 2000 and 2001.

He left for Japanese club rugby in 2004 but has been in strong form since returning to New Zealand rugby with the Blues this year.

Source: NZPA