All Black mid-fielder Tamati Ellison will miss the bulk of the Highlanders Super Rugby campaign as he recovers from a shoulder surgery.
The 29 year old first injured his shoulder playing for Otago during last year's NPC, and underwent surgery after returning from the All Blacks end of season tour when a scan revealed a dislocation and a broken shoulder bone.
Ellison's loss will be a major blow to the Highlanders, but he may yet still play for the southern franchise if they make it through to the play offs.
Story by: Aliki Bia
Source: stuff.co.nz