All Blacks lock Patrick Tuipulotu is unlikely to feature in New Zealand’s second Rugby Championship Test against Argentina this weekend after being taken to hospital following the side’s 41-24 win over the Pumas in Cordoba.
Tuipulotu, who replaced captain Scott Barrett in the 56th minute, sustained a head knock and was sent for medical assessment after the match. Assistant coach Jason Ryan confirmed the setback from South America on Monday.
“Patty went off to hospital and had a couple of check-ups as well, which we are monitoring over the next 24 hours,” said Ryan. “Patty is potentially unlikely for this week.”
Barrett, who was returning from an Achilles injury, was withdrawn as a precaution and is expected to be fit for Saturday’s match in Buenos Aires.
Fabian Holland, who started in the second row alongside Barrett, has also been cleared to play after being substituted late in the match due to cramp.
Number eight Wallace Sititi and loosehead prop Tamaiti Williams may also return to action this weekend as they continue their recovery from ankle and knee operations respectively.
“We have got some decent selection decisions to have to be honest because the people in those positions are playing pretty well. That is healthy,” Ryan added.
New Zealand’s hard-earned win in Cordoba, combined with Australia’s shock victory over world champions South Africa, is set to send the All Blacks back to the top of the world rankings for the first time since 2021.
The Springboks are expected to fall to third behind Ireland, having spent most of the last five years as the top-ranked side. Australia will remain sixth, behind France and England.
“It just shows you how tough test footy is, how close it is, and the margins,” said head coach Scott Robertson after the match.
“We’re pleased we’re number one, but our sights will probably be more set on next week’s match than rankings.”