THE MONUMENTAL TASK of defeating the All Blacks for the first time in history has eased somewhat for Ireland after Richard Kahui and Cory Jane suffered injuries that will rule them out of the June tests.

Jane left the field early in the first half of a Super Rugby match for the Hurricanes on Friday after damaging his ankle.

The winger is expected to be out of action for at least six weeks.

Hurricanes coach Mark Hammett said, “It is disappointing for both Cory to be out with injury but we have been in this situation before and it means the other guys need to step up which they will do. ”

Kahui will definitely miss the three-match visit of Declan Kidney’s men next month after sustaining a season-ending shoulder injury.

The 26-year-old pickled up the knock after falling awkwardly in a tackle while playing for the league-leading Chiefs. Kahui’s coach, Dave Rennie said:

I feel for him because he’s a bloody top man, a big part of our leadership group and obviously the All Blacks were pretty keen on him playing there.

“It’s disappointing for him, but knowing him he’ll still have a bit to say about what goes on from here in regard to what we do on the track and helping out the young fellas,” Rennie added.

Kahui and Jane combined to score five tries at the Rugby World Cup last year as hosts New Zealand captured their first title in 24 years.

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