Nonu out of Tri-Nations start

New Zealand centre Ma’a Nonu looks set to miss the majority of the Tri-Nations competition after being told he needs to have surgery on his left thumb.

The 24-year-old is expected to be out of action for at least six weeks after breaking his thumb last Saturday while playing club rugby in Wellington.

The All Blacks team to play Australia in the tournament opener in Christchurch on Saturday will be named on Tuesday, and Auckland centre Sam Tuitupou has been called into the squad.

The Wallabies received some better news ahead of the clash, with centre Matt Giteau getting through a training session without any problems after injuring his thumb in an ACT club match on Saturday.

Giteau was attempting to gain some game-time after recovering from a knee injury he picked up during the Super 14 competition, but he is expected to be named to face the All Blacks.