All Blacks captain Ardie Savea ruled out of Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry decider

New Zealand captain Ardie Savea will miss the fourth and final Test of Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry tour after suffering a shoulder injury in Saturday’s 29-24 defeat by South Africa in Soweto.

The number eight was forced off during the first half at FNB Stadium and will not travel to the United States for the series finale in Baltimore.

Savea’s absence is another major setback for the All Blacks, who have already lost Caleb Clarke, George Bell, Anton Segner and Billy Proctor during their tour of South Africa.

Savea did not feature in the opening block of the tour after being rested, but had returned to the starting line-up for the third Test. His injury now means he will take no further part in the series.

“It’s a shoulder,” said Rennie of the back-rower’s injury, which initially appeared to be a pectoral problem. “I’m not sure if it’s a dislocation or not, but he certainly won’t be travelling to the States.

“He was massive, but Wallace (Sititi) came on and did well. We’re not going to use that as an excuse (for the defeat).”

The All Blacks will also need to decide who leads the team in Baltimore.

Luke Jacobson wore the captain’s armband in Savea’s absence during the defeat at FNB Stadium and also captained the side against the Sharks. Patrick Tuipulotu has led New Zealand in the tour matches against the Stormers and Lions, while Codie Taylor was captain against the Bulls.

The leadership issue adds to the uncertainty surrounding a team that has suffered several injury setbacks during the South Africa leg of the tour.

Quinn Tupaea is another concern for the final Test after being withdrawn with a knee injury in Soweto. The midfielder’s condition has not yet been fully assessed, leaving his availability for the trip to the United States unclear.

“The report we had during the game was an MCL. I’m not sure of the extent; he actually wanted to get up and run, but we ended up making a call. I’m not sure of the severity of it or whether it affects him going to America or not.”

New Zealand suffered a second defeat of the tour against the Boks, who secured a 29-24 victory in the third Test. The result leaves the All Blacks preparing for the final match without their captain and potentially without Tupaea, while a number of other established players are already unavailable.

The fourth Test will bring Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry tour to a conclusion in Baltimore.