Milner-Skudder targets Super Rugby comeback
Wing Nehe Milner-Skudder says his shoulder injury will prevent him being available for the All Blacks’ northern tour in November, and is aiming to make his comeback for the Hurricanes next season.
Milner-Skudder, who proved such a sensation for the Hurricanes last year that he forced his way into the All Blacks’ World Cup squad for the tournament in England and Wales, hasn’t played any rugby since dislocating his left shoulder in the round-three Super Rugby match against the Blues in Auckland on March 11. He required surgery for a shoulder reconstruction.
All Blacks coach Steve Hansen had earlier indicated MilnerSkudder was unlikely to be considered for the tour of Chicago, Rome, Dublin and Paris because he understood it would be better to let him to remain in New Zealand to recover from his injury and Nehe Milner-Skudder has confirmed there is no chance of a comeback this year.
Milner-Skudder, who started on the right wing in victory over the Wallabies in the World Cup final in London on October 31, stated on social media that he won’t be playing for either the All Blacks, or his province Manawatu, in 2016.
‘‘To everyone that’s been asking [and I really appreciate the support] looks like I won’t be back until Super Rugby next year,’’ MilnerSkudder wrote. ’’Would have loved to get back out on the paddock this year but it’s a bit too early and still some risk of buggering it. Meantime will keep donning the ‘HydrationTechnician’ bib for the Turbo lads and I look forward to getting stuck into preseason with the Canes. I really appreciate all the messages & support, thanks a lot!!’’
The 25-year-old has played eight tests for the All Blacks. His first test appearance was against the Wallabies in Sydney on August 8 last year, a match the Aussies won 27-19.
Milner-Skudder’s rise to prominence in 2015 was just reward for a fine season with the Hurricanes; he has the ability to combine speed with clever footwork to beat defenders and can also play at fullback.
He will now concentrate on being fully fit ahead of the British and Irish Lions’ tour of New Zealand next year, giving Hansen the option of assessing the form of another potent finisher in his basket of outside backs.
Waisake Naholo, Ben Smith and Israel Dagg have started on the right wing for the All Blacks this season, while Julian Savea, who appears to have finally rediscovered his form in the recent Rugby Championship tests against South Africa and Argentina, has provided power on the left flank.
The All Blacks are currently in Buenos Aires, preparing for their next test against Argentina this weekend.