Scott Barrett is likely to be unfit for All Blacks duties this year

Crusaders lock Scott Barrett’s foot injury could have ruined his hopes of representing the All Blacks this year.

All Blacks selector Grant Fox told NewstalkZB that Barrett, who had surgery on the structures supporting a big toe in late June, could struggle to be fit for the international window which has been fitted into the rugby programme between October and December.

The Crusaders had earlier stated that Barrett would be sidelined for about 12-16 weeks.

Fox says this would result in selectors assessing other talents ahead of the Bledisloe Cup and Rugby Championship tests.

Currently, his spot in the All Blacks this year is likely to be filled by All Black veteran Sam Whitelock who returned early from Japan amid the COVID-19 pandemic and Blues captain Patrick Tuipulotu.

Meanwhile, the Crusaders will take on the Chiefs at 7.05pm Saturday and the Highlanders will face the Blues at 3.35pm Sunday.

[Source: Stuff.co.nz]