New Zealand team doctor Tony Page has revealed that Dan Carter will undergo surgery to remove bone spurs in his ankle.

The 31-year-old fly-half, who has already started his six-month sabbatical, was forced off during last month's Autumn International against England.

"Dan has some bone spurs in the same ankle which need to be removed so he will have an operation for that," said Page.

"This is similar to what he had done a few years ago."

Carter will return to action with Super Rugby side Crusaders in July.

Written by
Michael Penkman