17 Jun 2018

Barrett and Fifita in doubt for third test

2:07 pm on 17 June 2018

All Blacks first five Beauden Barrett and loose forward Vaea Fifita won't travel to Dunedin with the team for the third and final test against France because of concussion.

Beauden Barrett

Beauden Barrett Photo: Photosport

Both Barrett and Fifita suffered their concussions in last night's 26-13 win over France in Wellington.

Barrett's incident occurred in the 12th minute of the match when he collided in mid air with France fullback Ben Fall.

Fall was red carded for the incident because Barrett landed on his neck and head.

Coach Steve Hansen says both Barrett and Fifita will stay in Wellington tonight and will be monitored throughout the week.

Hansen said a decision will be made later in the week on whether they'll join the group in Dunedin ahead of Saturday's test.

The squad flies out for Dunedin this afternoon.

Fellow loose forward Liam Squire is also in doubt for the final test, he suffered a shoulder injury in last night's match.

Hooker Nathan Harris will also miss the third test, he's heading home to Hamilton to await the birth of his first child.

Hurricanes hooker Ricky Riccitelli and Highlanders loose forward Jackson Hemopo have been called in as cover.

In better news for the All Blacks, Hansen confirmed Sonny Bill Williams should be available for the Dunedin test after successfully recovering from knee surgery.

-RNZ