Wing George Bridge's international season appears to be over.
The 25-year-old will be sidelined for six months due to a pectoral injury suffered during a training session.
The injury likely opens the door for Caleb Clarke - who impressed in his test debut in the draw against Australia last weekend - to claim a starting berth on the wing for the second Bledisloe Cup test at Eden Park on Sunday.
Will Jordan - who was to be released to appear for the Tasman Mako this weekend - will now be held back in the squad as cover.
The recovery time frame also puts the Crusaders' Bridge in doubt for the return of Super Rugby Aotearoa next year.
Bridge's absence compounds the All Blacks' selection quandries, with veteran lock Sam Whitelock also in doubt due to concussion issues, while Beauden Barrett is still nursing an Achilles strain.
The All Blacks squad for Sunday's test is due to be announced at 11:30am on Friday.
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