All Blacks suffer injury setback as Tuipulotu taken to hospital after Pumas win

Patrick Tuipulotu was a 56th-minute replacement for Scott Barrett in New Zealand's 41-24 win over the Pumas in the opening round of the 2025 Rugby Championship.

The victory, coupled with South Africa's shock loss to Australia, moved the All Blacks up the rankings to regain the No.1 spot in the world, but it may have come at the cost of losing lock Tuipulotu for next weekend's round two fixture.

According to assistant coach Jason Ryan, a head injury assessment following the win at the Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes resulted in the replacement forward visiting the hospital in the aftermath.

"Patty went off to the hospital and had a couple of check-ups as well, which we are monitoring over the next 24 hours," he confirmed at a media briefing. "He is potentially unlikely for this week."

Tuipulotu's absence will now see head coach Robertson dip into the New Zealand squad depth. Barrett and Fabien Holland, who started in Cordoba, were replaced but are available for round two.

Referencing Holland, who was limping when subbed for Samipeni Finau in the 72nd minute, Ryan explained: "He just had a little bit of cramp; we probably should have hooked him a little bit earlier."

Barrett, meanwhile, hadn't played since a calf muscle injury versus France on July 5, a comeback which resulted in him not going the distance in Argentina. "That was always the plan there, but he has got through really well and we are really pleased with how he played," added Ryan.

With Tuipulotu set to be unavailable, the All Blacks could ask Finau to provide lock/back row cover, while Josh Lord could also be an option, as could Tupou Vaa'i, who has played predominantly at flank this year, but the vast majority of his Tests have been in the second row.

Meanwhile, Ryan suggested loose forward Wallace Sititi and prop Tamaiti Williams would be available for selection, having worked their way back from respective ankle and knee operations earlier this year.

"We will get through tomorrow [Monday] and make that decision," said Ryan. "We have got some decent selection decisions to make, to be honest. Because the people in those positions are playing pretty well. That's healthy."

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