The All Blacks will be without influential lock Brodie Retallick for their November Tests against Wales and Scotland.
Retallick has been banned for two weeks – leaving the 31-year-old available to return to face England at Twickenham on November 19.
The 98-cap second row will add to New Zealand’s absentees, with captain Sam Cane and marauding hooker Dane Coles out of the northern hemisphere tour due to injury.
Skipper Cane has a fractured cheekbone, while Coles has suffered a recurrence of a calf complaint.
New Zealand will face Wales in Cardiff on Saturday, before heading up to Murrayfield to take on Scotland on Sunday, November 13.
Retallick was sent off in the All Blacks’ 38-31 win over Japan, for an illegal clear-out of Japan back-rower Kazuki Himeno at a ruck.
Retallick’s suspension will be limited to two weeks provided he completes a coaching intervention programme.
The All Blacks powerhouse lock accepted an act of foul play but rejected the offence being deemed worthy of a red card.
While New Zealand will lament Retallick’s absence for the next two weeks, the All Blacks will receive a clear boost in his ability to return to take on Eddie Jones’ England.
