NRL star Roger Tuivasa-Sheck has been ruled out of New Zealand's Test against Australia in Auckland next month and subsequent tour of Europe.
A New Zealand Rugby League spokesperson confirmed to AAP that Tuivasa-Sheck was still not fit following knee surgery this month and won't represent the Kiwis in 2018.
The inspirational Warriors fullback and captain suffered medial ligament damage and was forced off during the Warriors' elimination semi-final loss to Penrith.
The 25-year-old also missed their mid-year Test loss to England in Denver because of injury niggles.
It is a major setback for Michael Maguire's team, who want to restore pride following last year's World Cup disaster.
The electric running of Tuivasa-Sheck made him the Warriors' player of the season and he is considered one of the front-runners to win the NRL's main prize at the Dally M awards on Wednesday.
Injury has plagued the Test career of the 25-year-old, who has scored 13 tries in 16 Kiwis appearances.
His fullback slot against the Kangaroos at Mt Smart Stadium on October 13 is likely to go to Dallin Watene-Zelezniak.
The 23-year-old's three Tests have been on the wing but he impressed at fullback late in the season for the Panthers and made 12 starts throughout the campaign.
