Rugby: Kerr-Barlow out for six weeks

The Chiefs will have to do without Tawera Kerr-Barlow for the next six weeks after the halfback broke his jaw in Friday night's hard-fought 19-7 win over the Highlanders in Hamilton.

The 22-year-old, who made his All Blacks debut against Scotland late last year, will have surgery early next week. He's a big loss for the Chiefs, having been one of the standout players in last season's charge to the Super Rugby title.

The Chiefs, who lead the New Zealand conference with four wins from their five games, have cover at halfback with former All Black Brendon Leonard and Augustine Pulu.

Dave Rennie's side host the Blues in Mt Maunganui next Saturday night.