Influential centre Conrad Smith has been ruled out of the All Blacks' opening Rugby Championship Tests having undergone eye surgery.
The 58-capped Smith will miss New Zealand's opening two Tests against Australia.
"Conrad had two procedures on his left eye for a retinal detachment last week, with the second on Friday," said Hurricanes doctor Ian Murphy.
"They both went well and he is now recovering at home. At this stage he is expected to be out of training for six weeks."
With fellow centre Sonny Bill Williams destined for Japan, Smith's absence will cause a selection headache for All Blacks coach Steve Hansen
