Sanders adds to Crusaders injury woes

The Crusaders have suffered another injury blow to one of there looseforwards. Tom Sanders has had surgery on an acute fracture in his ankle, which he sustained during pre-season training.

The medical team will monitor his recovery, with an anticipated recovery time of approximately 3-4 months.

The Crusaders are currently working through the process and will call in a player to join the squad to provide cover.

Sanders' injury comes just one day after the Crusaders announced that All Black captain Kieran Read will miss the start of the season with a back injury.

Should Sanders miss four months, like Read, he would miss the Crusaders' first seven games of 2018, possibly returning for their match against the Sunwolves in Christchurch on April 21. 

Sanders adds to an already long injury list that includes All Blacks props Joe Moody (shoulder) and Owen Franks (Achilles) until as late as May.

Jordan Taufua (broken arm) isn't training but should be available come their season opener.