Cane ‘may not be standing’ without big neck

Sam Cane said he may not have been back on his feet if the neck he fractured during New Zealand’s Rugby Championship win over South Africa on Saturday was not so big.

The All Blacks flanker underwent surgery in Pretoria and faces at least three months on the sidelines after sustaining the injury in a dramatic 32-30 victory for the world champions.

Cane, capped 60 times by his country, is expected to make a full recovery but suggested it might have been a different story if his frame was less bulky in a social media post that showed him in a neck brace with his thumb up.

“A few things to be thankful for. Firstly, the circumference and strength of my neck, I may not be standing without it,” Cane posted.

pic.twitter.com/X3jVlZnHTa

— Sam Cane (@SamCane7) October 10, 2018

“Secondly, the world-class medical team I’ve had here in Pretoria, couldn’t have asked for anything more.

“Thirdly, from all the support I’ve received from family, friends, NZRU [New Zealand Rugby Union], SAR [South Africa Rugby] and all the messages from around the world.

“Really appreciate the messages it means a lot. Please accept this as personal acknowledgement and thanks. Onwards and upwards.”

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