Injury Blow: Crusaders' Tamaiti Williams Out with Spinal Infection
All Blacks prop Tamaiti Williams misses rest of Super Rugby Pacific season due to discitis, uncertain for July internationals.
Tamaiti Williams ruled out of Crusaders season, All Blacks test season uncertain...
New Zealand rugby is facing a tough time as All Blacks prop Tamaiti Williams has been ruled out of the rest of the Canterbury Crusaders' Super Rugby Pacific season due to a spinal infection. The 25-year-old loosehead is currently in hospital after being diagnosed with discitis, an infection in one of the discs in his spine.
Williams is uncertain to return to action in time for the start of the All Blacks' test season in July, which includes matches against France, Italy, and Ireland as part of the inaugural Nations Championship. He's been told he'll make a 100% recovery, but his return to rugby will be guided by further medical advice.
BREAKING 🚨: Tamaiti Williams ruled out of Super Rugby season with back infection.
— Chalyn.Rugby (@ChalynRugby) March 29, 2026
Williams is currently in hospital recovering, and will be unable to return to play during the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season. His return to play schedule beyond that is unclear#Allblacks… pic.twitter.com/DIwEDN1hoU
His absence is a big loss for the defending champs, struggling in 6th place after a slow start.
“His return to rugby beyond (the season) remains unclear and will be guided by further medical advice,” the Crusaders said.
Williams had been dealing with back pain for a couple of weeks before getting scanned in hospital.
“I’m feeling gutted, but I’m also grateful that the news isn't as bad as what it could be,” he said.
“I’ve been told I’m going to make a 100 percent recovery, so I’m thankful for that.”
The All Blacks kick off their test season in July with games against France, Italy, and Ireland in the inaugural Nations Championship.
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