New Zealand have been rocked by the news that playmaker Dan Carter will miss the rest of the Rugby World Cup through injury.
The influential stand-off suffered a torn adductor muscle during the All Blacks' training session ahead of their final Pool A game against Canada on Sunday.
Carter had been named as captain for the match after Richie McCaw was forced to skip the game due to a niggling foot problem. Hooker Andrew Hore will now wear the armband.
"It has been confirmed he has a significant groin injury," reported team doctor Deb Robinson. "He has torn the left adductor longus tendon completely.
"He will see a specialist early next week to determine the next course of treatment for him, with surgery a possibility."
Stand-in Colin Slade will take Carter's place at number 10 for the match against the Canadians with Manawatu's Aaron Cruden called up to the squad as cover.
"It's devastating for Daniel," New Zealand coach Graham Henry said. "This was going to be his pinnacle and it's devastating for him. This was his scene, this World Cup in New Zealand, and it was going to be his big occasion.
"We're all feeling for Daniel because he's been an integral part of the side for such a long time. He's not going to burst onto the finals and that's very sad.
"He's a key All Black, not only as as the person who navigates the side on the field but also off the field.
"I feel very sad for him but he is the type of guy who will handle this. He has strength of character... and I feel huge sympathy for him."
