Young rugby star battling cancer

The Manawatu Rugby Union has announced that 19-year-old Turbos first five-eighth, Aaron Cruden, is battling cancer and will not play the rest of the Air New Zealand Cup season.

Manawatu Rugby Union chief executive Hadyn Smith, said the player's doctors were positive about his future as he embarked on the treatment programme.

"Aaron is a fine young sportsman who has shown strength and tenacity on the field and we know these are attributes he will draw on in the months ahead as he fights to return to full health," Smith said.

Smith said Cruden and his family are aware there has been much speculation about his health in recent weeks, and they ask that he be given the space to focus on getting better.

"The Cruden family appreciates the support Aaron has been given from the Manawatu Rugby Union, Turbos supporters and the wider community and they ask that his privacy be respected," said Smith

He is the son of former Manawatu captain Stu Cruden who lives and works in Hawke's Bay.

Smith said the union was looking at how it could support Cruden.

The Turbos had earmarked him for big things this season and he had been hopeful of being named in the 22 to play Taranaki at New Plymouth only last Thursday, pending a medical clearance.

Coach Dave Rennie would have introduced him to the team last year but couldn't get dispensation from the New Zealand Rugby Union for him to play because of his age.

He had appeared in the first four games for the Turbos this year, starting in the Ranfurly Shield challenge against Auckland when Matty James was out with an injured knee.

Rennie said Cruden is tough and everyone has to look at his future in a positive light.

"The boys were pretty shocked when they found out," Rennie said. "You feel pretty helpless and all you can do is offer support.

"The game is insignificant compared to his health."

Cruden made most impact nationwide through being on live television when he came on as a sub against Waikato on August 14. His darting runs through the defence helped engineer Manawatu's comeback in the 38-all draw.

He also played a major role in College Old Boys' romp through most of the Manawatu club season, scoring six of the team's 105 tries. With 139 points to his name, he was the second highest points-scorer this year.

After turning 19 on January 8, he will still be eligible for the New Zealand under-20 team next year.

"He's young enough and good enough," Rennie said. "He just has to sort out his health."

- © Fairfax NZ News