Cam Roigard stood down by All Blacks with immediate effect

Roigard has been ruled out as a precaution after reporting tightness in his calf, with New Zealand opting not to take any risks with the influential number nine.

The All Blacks confirmed: “Cam Roigard has been pulled from the side to play the Sharks as a precautionary measure.

“He has a tight calf so the decision has been made to allow some time for that to settle.”

Cortez Ratima will take Roigard’s place on the bench for the clash as New Zealand continue their preparations in South Africa.

The decision appears precautionary rather than a major injury concern, but Roigard’s fitness will now be closely monitored with the historic four-Test series against the Springboks looming.

New Zealand face South Africa at Ellis Park on August 22 before further Tests in Cape Town, Johannesburg and Baltimore.

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