Chance Peni's high tackle on Israel Dagg has almost certainly ended the All Black's hopes of a Test recall in June.
Crusaders back Dagg was forced out of their Super Rugby win over the Brumbies after opposite number Peni's high shot, which earned Peni a yellow card and a date with the Sanzaar judiciary.
Dagg injured a knee when he fell and it is set to sideline him for several weeks.
Crusaders coach Scott Robertson says the veteran All Black is unlikely to play before the Test squad is named on May 20 for three home Tests against France in June.
Dagg's injury came in just his second game back since beginning rehabilitation on a knee injury last September.
The 29-year-old winger/fullback had undergone stem cell therapy in a bid to hasten the process.
Dagg's hopes of adding to his 66 Tests must wait until at least the Rugby Championship but he faces a stiff task, with a traffic jam of outside back options confronting All Blacks coach Steve Hansen.
Peni has apologised to Dagg on social media for the incident, which was accepted.
While the Crusaders will be without Dagg when they face the Rebels in Melbourne on Friday, they are expected to welcome the return to fitness of playmaker Richie Mo'unga.
The classy first five-eighth has been out since his jaw was fractured in round three.
