'We're gutted for him': All Blacks star facing up to nine months on the sidelines

TJ Perenara is in a race to be fit for next year’s Rugby World Cup after he ruptured his Achilles in the dying stages of the All Blacks’ dramatic 25-all draw with England.

Perenara, who was playing just his second Test of the year, is reportedly facing up to nine months on the sidelines.

The 30-year-old was seen limping off the field after England scored their third try inside the final 10 minutes of the blockbuster at Twickenham.

All Blacks head coach Ian Foster confirmed Perenara had “ruptured his Achilles” after chasing a kick in the final couple of minutes.

“I wouldn’t say that but we’re gutted for him,” Foster said, as reported by the New Zealand Herald.

“It’s the 78^th minute and he’s innocuously gone to chase a kick and it’s gone bang which hurts.”

While it may not be considered an injury crisis yet, Perenara’s injury has created even more headaches surrounding the All Blacks’ already depleted halfback stocks.

Highlanders scrum-half Folau Fakatava, who made his Test debut in the black jersey earlier this year, was sidelined after he ruptured his ACL.

The All Blacks’ first World Cup game, which is against tournament hosts France in Paris, is less than 10 months away.