Wales without Williams, Cuthbert for NZ clash

London - Wales' hopes of ending their long losing streak against New Zealand have been dented after Liam Williams was ruled out of Saturday's clash with an abdominal injury.

Williams suffered the injury against Georgia on Saturday and the Welsh Rugby Union announced on Tuesday that the 26-year-old back will be sidelined in Cardiff this weekend. 

His absence is a blow to Wales after he caused the All Blacks numerous problems while playing for the British and Irish Lions earlier this year. 

Williams, who can cover the fullback or wing position, is not Wales' only absentee. 

Winger Alex Cuthbert has been released because of a calf injury and the WRU has not put a timescale on either player's return. 

"Liam Williams (abdominal) & Alex Cuthbert (calf) have been released from the Wales squad due to injury," a message on the WRU's Twitter account said. 

New Zealand have won their last 29 meetings with Wales, who laboured to a 13-6 win over Georgia in Cardiff last weekend.