Ryan out for six weeks

A shoulder injury has ruled Otago Highlanders lock James Ryan out of action for up to six weeks.

A shoulder injury has ruled All Blacks and Otago Highlanders lock James Ryan out of action for up to six weeks.

Ryan needs to have remedial surgery on his left shoulder according to Highlanders coach Greg Cooper.

"It's a big blow to us as a team and obviously to James personally," said Cooper.

"It's an extremely disappointing thing to happen to a young man with such a promising career."

Ryan, 23, has played seven tests since making his international debut against Fiji last year.