New Zealand lock Keith Robinson has been ruled out of the All Blacks' World Cup opener against Italy this week with a calf strain.
The injury-prone 30-year-old will be rested from Saturday's clash with the Azzurri, having fought back from career-threatening knee and back injuries to join the 30-man squad.
'It's not ideal but you have to play the cards you've been dealt and get on with the job,' Robinson told The Dominion Post.
'I've given it a little tweak, I'm managing it and we're taking it 24 hours at a time.'
Coach Graham Henry added: 'He is getting the best treatment available and has a very positive attitude. We're hoping he will be ready in a couple of weeks.'
Henry must now risk one or both of first-choice second rowers Chris Jack and Ali Williams against the Six Nations side.
Versatile veteran Reuben Thorne may also move into contention.
