Statement: All Blacks star stood down with immediate effect

Segner had been named among the replacements for the clash but has withdrawn after presenting with a swollen ankle.

New Zealand confirmed the 25-year-old loose forward has been assessed as suffering from acute inflammatory arthritis, with no timeframe yet placed on his return.

In a short game-day statement, the All Blacks said: “Loose forward Anton Segner has been ruled from the bench for today’s game against the Springboks and will be replaced by Simon Parker.

“Segner presented with a swollen ankle, which has been assessed as acute inflammatory arthritis. His return to play is yet to be determined.”

The setback means Simon Parker is promoted onto the bench for the highly anticipated encounter.

Segner’s absence is another frustrating blow for the All Blacks as they prepare to face their greatest rivals in South Africa.

The German-born forward has been pushing for further opportunities at Test level and would have hoped to make an impact from the bench.

Instead, his focus will now switch to recovery, with the All Blacks medical team yet to confirm when he could be available for selection again.