All Blacks lock Patrick Tuipulotu is a major injury concern ahead of the second Rugby Championship clash against Argentina in Buenos Aires.

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Tuipulotu was taken to hospital for check-ups after the 41-24 victory in Córdoba, having come off the bench for captain Scott Barrett in the 56th minute. Assistant coach Jason Ryan confirmed the lock had undergone a head injury assessment and may not recover in time.

“Patty went off to hospital and had a couple of check-ups as well, which we are monitoring over the next 24 hours,” Ryan said.

“Patty is potentially unlikely for this week.”

While it remains unclear when the knock occurred, Tuipulotu was involved in a crunching try-saving tackle shortly after his introduction.

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With Fabian Holland also hobbling late in the game, the All Blacks may need to reshuffle their lock cover. Holland, however, was cleared of serious injury, while Barrett is being carefully managed after returning from a calf strain. Josh Lord, who joined the squad as an injury replacement, could come into the match-day 23.

Ryan also confirmed Anton Lienert-Brown passed his HIA after a heavy clash with Santiago Chocobares, while loose forward Wallace Sititi and prop Tamaiti Williams are fit for selection after sitting out the Córdoba win. Both could feature in Buenos Aires, with Sititi in line for a first Test start at No 8.

Despite securing a bonus-point victory, Ryan admitted the All Blacks were frustrated by their second-half errors and discipline. Ryan said having almost a month off after the French series may have had an impact but acknowledged the execution should have been more clinical.

The team for Saturday’s Test will be named on Friday.

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