Zinzan hospitalised with head injuries

Former All Blacks rugby star Zinzan Brooke is recovering in a Spanish hospital from serious head injuries suffered in a fall, Television New Zealand reported on Monday.

The legendary New Zealander, who played 58 tests for the All Blacks and later coached the English club Harlequins, has undergone surgery to relieve pressure on the brain, the network quoted family members as saying.

Brooke’s injuries are serious but not life-threatening, his brother Robin said.

The injuries apparently occurred when Brooke fell while getting out of a taxi. Brooke’s wife Ally, four months pregnant, is at his bedside.

Brooke, 42, played mainly at number eight and was regarded as one of the greatest players of his generation. His 17 Test tries were a record for a forward and he also kicked three drop goals in Tests.

Sapa-AP