Wales fullback Leigh Halfpenny requires surgery on a knee ligament injury sustained in the 68-12 win over Canada on Saturday, the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) said on Tuesday, ruling him out of their summer tests.
The 32-year-old was visibly upset as he was taken off the field on a stretcher after his knee appeared to give way when he tried to launch a counter-attack and before any Canadian player had tackled him.
The WRU said in a statement on Tuesday: “The fullback will require surgery with further assessments to determine his long-term prognosis and management.”
Saturday’s match marked Halfpenny’s 100th international test appearance and he thanked fans for all the kind messages he received on the “special day.”
“Mixed emotions right now, not how I hoped it would go but a special day running out for my country to play my 100th international test.” Halfpenny said in an Instagram post.
“It’s always a huge honour to put on the Welsh Rugby Union and British and Irish Lions jerseys and have had some incredible memories in both, which I feel extremely grateful for.
“It was extra special to have our home fans and my family back in the stands and congratulations to all the new caps. Thank you for all the kind messages.”
Aneurin Owen was named as Halfpenny’s replacement. Wales are due to play Argentina twice in Cardiff — on Saturday and July 17.