Crusaders and All Blacks loosehead prop Tamaiti Williams has been ruled out of the rest of the Super Rugby Pacific season due to a serious spinal infection.
The Christchurch-based outfit issued a press statement on their official website on Monday, which revealed that Williams has been diagnosed with discitis – an infection in one of the discs in his spine.
He will remain under close medical supervision until his condition is stable enough for him to return home.
Williams‘ absence is a massive setback for the Crusaders, who are Super Rugby Pacific‘s defending champions and currently occupy sixth position in the standings for the current season.
Uncertainty over All Blacks involvement
With the 25-year-old sidelined for the rest of the Crusaders’ season, there is uncertainty whether he will be available to play for the All Blacks, who kick off their international campaign with Nations Championship Tests in New Zealand against France, Italy and Ireland in July.
Williams explained how the past few weeks unfolded and revealed that he has been in a lot of pain.
“I’ve had a sore back for a couple of weeks and had to come in for some scans and blood tests,” said the 27-Test All Black. “They found an infection in my back called discitis, which means I’m going to be on antibiotics for a pretty long time.
“Unfortunately, my Crusade for 2026 is over.”
The injury is a huge blow for Williams, who had cemented himself as the All Blacks’ first-choice loosehead prop in 2025.
‘Gutted but grateful’
“I’m feeling gutted, but I’m also grateful that the news isn’t as bad as what it could be,” he said.
“Being in hospital, you see a lot, and it makes you appreciate that this place is here to save us.
“I’ve been told I’m going to make a 100% recovery, so I’m thankful for that.”
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Despite being sidelined for the rest of the Super Rugby Pacific campaign, Williams had a message of encouragement for his team-mates and the broader Crusaders family.
“Even though my season’s done, I’ve got full faith in the boys that they’re going to get the job done,” he said.
“It’s an exciting year for us with the new stadium and a lot of big moments coming up. I’ll be backing the team all the way.”