All Blacks lock Patrick Tuipulotu will miss the World Cup after opting to undergo surgery on his hips.
The 22-year-old will have one hip operated on this week with more surgery on his other hip in six weeks' time.
The seven-Test Blues player will be out of rugby for the rest of the year.
"All options were carefully considered including ongoing treatment for Patrick, but surgery is the best decision for the long-term career in such a young player," said Blues doctor Stephen Kara.
The developmental defect was detected when Tuipulotu was undergoing treatment for a groin injury.
"I am naturally gutted that this takes me out of consideration for the All Blacks' season and the Rugby World Cup, but this is the best thing to do long term," Tuipulotu said.
"I am only 22 and I could be around for two more World Cups. The best thing for me and my wellbeing is to have this surgery now, which gives me the time I need to rehab properly and come back stronger, fitter and better."
All Blacks prop Charlie Faumuina will miss the Auckland Blues' last two Super Rugby matches with a neck strain, while fellow international frontrower Tony Woodcock's shoulder injury also means he will sit out the rest of the Blues' season.
There are 12 Blues players on the injured list including All Blacks Jerome Kaino, Steven Luatua and Charles Piutau.
They have won just three of their 14 games this season.
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