The All Blacks have lost another player for the Rugby World Cup with lock Patrick Tuipulotu ruled out for the rest of the year through injury.
Tuipulotu, 22, has decided to have surgery on a developmental defect with his hips.
Treatment for a recent groin injury revealed a defect with his hips which had previously not been detected.
Blues doctor Stephen Kara said "all options were carefully considered including ongoing treatment ... but surgery is the best decision for the long-term career in such a young player".
All Black and Blues lock Patrick Tuipulotu has been ruled out of the World Cup. Photo: Photosport
The initial surgery on one hip will take place this week and the other hip will be operated on in six weeks.
Tuipolotu joins fellow All Black Aaron Cruden on the sidelines for the World Cup after Cruden suffered a season-ending knee injury playing for the Chiefs in April.
Tuipulotu said he decided the best option was to undergo surgery now so he could make a full recovery in preparation for next year's Super Rugby season.
"I am naturally gutted that this takes me out of consideration for the All Blacks season and the Rugby World Cup, but this is the best thing to do long term," Tuipulotu said.
"I am only 22 and I could be around for two more World Cups. The best thing for me and my wellbeing is to have this surgery now which gives me the time I need to rehab properly and come back stronger, fitter and better."
Long list of injured players at Blues
Tuipulotu is among a long list of injured players at the Blues, which now totals 12 players.
All Black prop Charlie Faumuina, who will not be available for the Blues' two remaining Super Rugby matches, joins other high profile players with longer term injuries.
He is suffering from a neck strain with further testing required before finalising a treatment plan.
His All Black team-mate Tony Woodcock will also miss the final two games, with his shoulder injury on the mend but not expected to heal in time for the final match on 12 June, leaving the prop on 149 Super Rugby caps.
Meanwhile, Charles Piutau is hopeful he will also be available for selection for the match against the Highlanders.
There are currently 12 Blues players on the injured list: Jerome Kaino, Steven Luatua, Faumuina, Woodcock, Tuipulotu, Piutau, Pita Ahki, Dan Bowden, Luke Braid, Bryn Hall, Angus Ta'avao and Lolagi Visinia.
Three players - Tevita Li, Blake Gibson and Akira Ioane - at the Junior World Cup can also be added to the list.
The Blues play the Crusaders on Saturday.
