Leicester Tigers lose Craig Newby to a knee injury – Aviva Premiership news
2010/11 Aviva Premiership runners up, Leicester Tigers, pre-season preparations suffered a major blow due to a knee injury to their pivotal back row forward, Craig Newby. Newby underwent surgery to his knee to repair the damage but will not be ready to kick
start th season with his squad.
Club officials have confirmed the surgery on Newby’s knee in a statement released on their website on Monday, July 9th. The rehabilitation required after the surgery has ruled Newby out of the initial phases of the 2011/12 Aviva Premiership.
Besides his consistent performance throughout last season, Newby also filled in the role of a make shift captain as he led his team into the Premiership final’s. Leicester Tigers director of rugby Richard Cockerill confirmed the Newby was struggling with
the knee pain for the past few weeks. After consultation with doctors and team management, it was decided that Newby should undergo surgery.
Cockerill further added, “We expect to be without him for at least the opening phase of the season while he comes through a thorough rehabilitation programme.”
Cockerill termed the absence of Newby as a major dent in the team’s plan. He said, “It's a blow for Newbs and for the club because his experience and his leadership have proved very important for the squad.”
The 31-year-old Newby played 23 games in the 2010/11 Premiership season for the Tigers and remained on the field for 1539 minutes. Cockerbill further added, “He enjoyed an excellent season in 2010/11 and we were looking for him to play a big part again this
year, especially as we will be missing a number of our experienced players and leaders due to the Rugby World Cup.”
The New Zealand Born Newby played 29 games in the domestic and the European Championships including the Heineken Cup. He was just behind his fellow countrymen and team-mate Scott Hamilton in the most games played in the season lists for the particular team.
Leicester Tigers will start their 2011/12 Aviva Premiership campaign against the Exeter Chiefs, at Welford Road, on September 3rd.
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