The All Black first five eighth Dan Carter has joined the captain Richie McCaw on the sidelines for Sunday's final Rugby World Cup pool match against Canada in Wellington.
Carter pulled up in kicking training with a groin strain after being named as captain for the first time, following McCaw's decision not to face the Canadians with his ongoing foot injury.
Colin Slade replaces Carter, Andy Ellis comes onto the reserves bench and hooker Andrew Hore will now take over the captaincy for the first time.
The All Blacks say Carter will be further assessed on Saturday evening with an update on his condition expected on Sunday.
One report's already claiming he will be out for the rest of the tournament.
