Neck injury ruled out Carter
A neck injury appears to be the reason Dan Carter’s planned return to French rugby was halted.
The All Blacks legend was set to rejoin Racing 92 but a failed medical ruled him out.
French newspaper reported Carter has a ‘‘cervical spine problem’’ that meant he was unable to complete his planned move as a replacement for Pat Lambie, who was forced to retire due to concussions.
Carter, who is still contracted to the Kobelco Steelers in
Japan, was set to earn between
€25,000
(NZ$41,800) and €35,000
(NZ$58,500) a month from the shortterm deal.
‘‘As part of routine medical checks prior to the approval of players’ licences, Racing 92 forwarded certain medical information to experts appointed by the Ligue Nationale de Rugby (LNR). Their opinion was unanimous: Dan Carter will not be able to play rugby in France,’’ the newspaper said.
The 37-year-old, who led Racing 92 to championship glory in 2016, joined the glamour Paris outfit following the All Blacks’
2015 World Cup victory. Ironically, Lambie was signed as cover by Racing 92 in 2017 when Carter was struggling with recurring injuries.
Carter, who played 112 tests for the All Blacks, finished his time with Racing 92 when they were knocked out of the Top 14 semifinals in May, 2018.