New Zealand back-rowers, Kieran Read and Adam Thomson, are preparing to miss the opening weeks of the Rugby World Cup.

Read, who is suffering with an ankle sprain will miss the opening weeks but will probably be able to return later on in the tournament. All Black team doctor Deb Robinson confirmed Read's injury.


"Kieran has torn the ligament between the tibia and fibula at the front of his left ankle."


However, the situtation for Adam Thomson looks a little more serious. He has injured his arm, an area he hasn't damaged before. New Zealand coach Graham Henry expressed his doubt for Thomson.


"I don't think Adam's injured his arm before but it doesn't look good."


However, the team doctor was quick to ensure that his injury would go away in time for him to take part in next months World Cup.


"Adam's MRI scan shows some swelling around the inside of his elbow which should settle quickly."


Read has had 32 International caps and was named as New Zealand's player of the year 2010. While Adam Thomson has appeared 17 times and can play either side of the back row.


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