All Black Franks to remain sidelined with shoulder injury

Crusaders and New Zealand prop Owen Franks will be out for at least another month due to a shoulder injury.

Franks has been sidelined since doing damage during a Super Rugby victory over the Brumbies this month.

The Northampton Saints-bound All Black does not require surgery, but will not return until the start of June at the earliest.

“The good thing is it doesn’t require surgery, so it will be a good rehab process,” said Crusaders assistant coach Jason Ryan.

“It’s obviously a relief for everyone. It was touch and go there for a bit. Get him back in a month, all going well.

“He’s got a good rehab plan for the next four weeks, and all going well that’s when he will return to play.”

Defending champions the Crusaders are top of the Super Rugby standings after winning their last four matches.

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