The Crusaders and the All Blacks take another blow. Will Jordan, full-back and one of the leading try-scorers in New Zealand history, has aggravated a calf injury during his side’s win over the Chiefs (36-32) in Super Rugby Pacific. His involvement in the 2026 Nations Championship, where New Zealand open against France in July, is now in doubt.

A recurring injury that upsets the Crusaders’ plans

Will Jordan already had calf trouble before that match against the Chiefs. The latest Super Rugby Pacific game only made an already fragile situation worse: the wing-cum-full-back will play no further part in the season with his club. For a Crusaders side going through a difficult period, after a 2024 season that ended in 9th place and a change of coaching staff at the top of the franchise, the absence of their star man is another major sporting setback.

The 2026 Nations Championship in sight

The real question for the New Zealand selectors concerns Jordan’s availability for the 2026 Nations Championship. The All Blacks are due to face France in just over a month in this new international competition, and Jordan’s withdrawal has not yet been confirmed for that fixture. His status remains uncertain, dependent on the pace of his muscle recovery. The New Zealand management is also monitoring the situation of Scott Barrett, the captain out for several months after back surgery, which is starting to weigh heavily on the All Blacks’ ranks as the summer approaches.

A player too valuable to be missing

Will Jordan is one of the most decisive players in world rugby. One of the leading try-scorers in All Blacks history, his absence would considerably weaken New Zealand’s attacking set-up against France. The New Zealand staff should provide an update on his fitness in the coming weeks before announcing the first call-ups for the Nations Championship.