Former All Blacks legend Dan Carter takes neck surgery

Former All Blacks legend Dan Carter has undergone neck surgery following a medical examination that will cost him a lucrative short-term contract with French club Racing 92.

"Another challenge to conquer!" Carter posted on his Twitter account, on Thursday with a photograph of him lying in a hospital bed and wearing a neck brace.

"Happy my neck surgery went well and now the long road to recovery starts."

The two-time World Cup-winner and former New Zealand fly-half had agreed on a short-term contract with his former club in the French capital. However, it was annulled after he failed the medical in early March this year.

The 37-year-old confirmed at the time that he would need to go under the knife.

Racing's Dan Carter (L) is tackled by an opponent during the French Top 14 rugby union match between Pau and Racing 92 at the Hameau Stadium in Pau, southwestern France, February 24, 2018. /VCG File Photo

Carter, one of the architects of All Blacks' back-to-back World Cup triumphs, had retired from international rugby after playing a key role in the 2015 World Cup. Subsequently, he played club rugby for Racing 92 until May 2018 with a three-year contract.

Later, he joined Kobelco Steelers in Japan's Top League, where he led the Steelers to their first title last year since 2004. Then he rejoined Racing as a replacement for Springboks utility back Patrick Lambie after being granted dispensation by the Japanese club.

According to the French media, left-footed Carter had reportedly been expected to get a fat paycheck of between 25,000-35,000 euros (28,200-39,480 U.S. dollars) a month.

The highly competitive French League, normally played from August to January, has been postponed this year until next January due to the Rugby World Cup, scheduled to be held in Japan from September 20 to November 2.

(AP)