Two-Test All Black Francis Saili will be sidelined for about a month after exacerbating a foot injury in the Blues' Super Rugby loss to the Highlanders.
Second five-eighth Saili was criticised by coach Sir John Kirwan for failing to disclose the injury to team medical staff ahead of their season-opening game in Dunedin on Saturday.
The 23-year-old was one of the Blues' best performers in the 29-21 defeat, scoring a spectacular individual try, but Kirwan was unhappy to learn Saili had played in pain.
"It's positive what he's trying to do. I just think he's been doing some stuff outside of what he should have been doing and he's put some stress on it," Kirwan told reporters.
"I told him I'd smash his foot with a sledge hammer if it happens again."
Saili's return date will depend on the extent of the injury, which will need an x-ray to determine. Early estimates are that he could be out for 3-6 weeks.
Kirwan's other chief concern is their other standout performer on Saturday, captain Luke Braid.
The influential flanker hobbled off with an ankle strain, leaving him in doubt for Friday's home game against the Crusaders and possibly the subsequent two-game tour of South Africa.
The Crusaders' biggest question marks are in the same positions - openside flanker and second five-eighth.
All Blacks No.7 and captain Richie McCaw and midfield back Ryan Crotty are doubts to make the trip north because of calf injuries picked up in their loss to the Chiefs.
