The All Blacks first five Aaron Cruden won't require surgery after injuring his right knee and limping off in the World Cup final win over France in Auckland on Sunday.
The All Blacks doctor Deb Robinson says Cruden saw a specialist in Auckland on Friday and while he'll have to wear a knee brace for the next three to four weeks, he's expected to make a full recovery.
That means Cruden should be able to take part in next year's Super 15 competition from the outset.
Cruden is joining the Chiefs, having left the Hurricanes to link up with his Manawatu and former under-20 World Cup-winning coach Dave Rennie and All Blacks assistant coach Wayne Smith.
