Kiwi rugby star Thomson withdraws from Delhi CWG

Wellington: Otago loose forward and star rugby 7s player Adam Thomson`s quest for a Commonwealth Games gold with the New Zealand team ended after he withdrew from the October 3-14 Delhi event due to a knee injury.

The 28-year-old has been ruled out for upto 10 weeks after he sprained medial ligament in his knee while playing for Otago against Northland in a National Provincial Championship match yesterday.The injury has not only ended his season with Otago and ruled him out of contention for the All Blacks squad for the November tour of Europe but, more importantly, it has led to his withdrawal from the Delhi Games. New Zealand 7s team is yet to name a replacement for Thomson.Now, Thomson would be looking to return to the field not before next February when he will have to start afresh to break into All Blacks World Cup`s scheme of things. Meanwhile, New Zealand 7s captain D J Forbes was also doubtful for the Games as he is still recovering from a groin injury. PTI