All Blacks' Damian McKenzie ruled out of Rugby World Cup through injury

The back, who has 23 test caps for the All Blacks, has picked up an ACL injury

Damian McKenzie in action against Ireland last autumn (Getty)

New Zealand utility back Damian McKenzie has been ruled out of the 2019 Rugby World Cup after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, All Blacks coach Steve Hansen has said.

McKenzie sustained the injury early in the second half of the Waikato Chiefs' 33-29 Super Rugby win over Auckland Blues on Saturday.

McKenzie has 23 test caps for New Zealand, who begin their World Cup campaign against South Africa in Yokohama on 21 September.

"He's done an ACL and looks to be out for eight to nine months which is a real shame for him," Hansen said.

"His World Cup opportunity's gone but he's still young enough to make probably the next two. It's just important he gets his knee right and takes the time to be able to come back and achieve the dreams that he wants to achieve.

"It's sad for him obviously. It creates another opportunity for someone else. We've got to expect injuries and there will be more than just him I'd say."

Reuters