Injuries Deplete New Zealand Rugby Squad Ahead of France Match

New Zealand's former captain Sam Cane is in doubt for the upcoming clash against France due to a deep head cut sustained during the All Blacks' victory over Ireland, requiring stitches and a head injury assessment (HIA). Coach Scott Robertson expressed concern about Cane's condition while optimistically noting that key players Beauden Barrett and Codie Taylor are expected to return after recovering from concussions. The team faces further challenges with lock Sam Darry ruled out for the remainder of the tour due to a knee injury, alongside several other forwards who remain in New Zealand for recovery. If Cane is unavailable, the All Blacks may need to adjust their loose forward lineup, potentially moving Ardie Savea to the openside. The All Blacks are currently ranked second in the world and looking to maintain momentum against top European teams during their tour.