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Paris - All Blacks hooker Dane Coles could be out of action for six months after suffering ligament damage in the 38-18 win over France on Saturday.
The world champions said on Sunday that the 30-year-old will return home immediately from the team's autumn tour to undergo surgery.
"Dane Coles is to return home after rupturing his ACL in last night’s Test win over France," said the All Blacks on Twitter.
"Head Coach Steve Hansen says he will require an operation with likely 4-6 month recovery."
Coles, making his 56th All Blacks appearance, scored the first try in Saturday's win after just nine minutes at the Stade de France before going off a quarter of an hour later with what appeared to be a foot injury to be replaced by Codie Taylor.
It is the latest injury setback for Coles after being sidelined for several months earlier this year with concussion symptoms.
UPDATE: Dane Coles is to return home after rupturing his ACL in last night’s Test win over France. All Blacks Head Coach Steve Hansen says he will require an operation with likely 4-6 month recovery.
— All Blacks (@AllBlacks) November 12, 2017
