Image:Kieran Read: Could miss the play-offs through injury
Crusaders No.8 Kieran Read has suffered a new injury setback ahead of the final push for the Super Rugby play-offs.
Crusaders back-rower could miss the play-offs
New Zealand No.8 Kieran Read has suffered a new injury setback ahead of the Crusaders' final push for the Super Rugby play-offs.
Read only just returned to the Crusaders line-up for the 28-21 win over the Chiefs after a spell out with concussion.
But he could now miss the final game of the regular season against the Western Force - where the Canterbury franchise need to win to clinch a play-off spot - as well as the knockout stages after he damaged he ribs against the Chiefs.
"I think he's done a rib so I don't think he'll be right for next week," Crusaders captain Richie McCaw told TVNZ.
"He provides (heaps), especially with ball in hand, he is a real threat. He gets the ball over the advantage line so having him back was huge... But his leadership as well, he's pretty calm and does pretty well at lineout time."
If ruled out it would be the latest blow for Read who missed the start of the World Cup with a damaged ankle and in April suffered a pelvic injury.
