All Blacks v Pumas: Dan Carter ruled out

All Blacks first five Dan Carter will sit out his side’s match against Argentina in Wellington this Saturday night due to a calf strain.

Aaron Cruden will take his place in the run-on team, while Taranaki’s Beauden Barrett, who made his test debut against Ireland during the June series, comes into the reserves.

Coach Steve Hansen says Carter has been struggling with the injury all week, but only withdrew from the side after being named in it this morning.

“Dan has been carrying a tight left calf this week, but had been hopeful of playing.

“However, at training this morning it was apparent he would not be able to play. We have done the sensible thing and withdrawn him from the team.”

For Cruden, Carter’s misfortune gives him an opportunity to build on his scintillating form for the Chiefs.

In his last test start, the third Ireland international in Hamilton, the pint-sized pivot produced an outstanding 24 mintunes before retiring hurt with a leg injury.

He has since been forced to warm the bench, but did look sharp in his cameo off it against the Wallabies at Eden Park last month.

All Blacks: Israel Dagg, Cory Jane, Conrad Smith, Ma’a Nonu, Julian Savea, Aaron Cruden, Aaron Smith, Kieran Read, Richie McCaw ©, Victor Vito, Brodie Retallick, Luke Romano, Owen Franks, Keven Mealamu, Tony Woodcock

Reserves: Andrew Hore, Charlie Faumuina, Sam Whitelock, Liam Messam, Piri Weepu, Beauden Barrett, Ben Smith. (Source: rugbynews.co.nz)