Crusaders - The rot has started
A finger injury has ended Campbell Johnstone's Super 14 season.
The prop has had an operation on the tendon of a little finger, meaning he will not represent the Crusaders again this year.
The tighthead prop injured the digit in South Africa, but did not go under the scalpel until last week.
"There was some irony in that if the operation was successful, he would be ruled out for the rest of the campaign," Deans said. "But if it had not gone as well as hoped, he could have played for us again later."
With the surgery classed a success, Johnstone has been ordered to rest to allow the injury to heal.
The Crusaders, who will today name a replacement, already have depth in the position, with Greg Somerville and Ben Franks able to play both sides of the scrum along with loosehead Wyatt Crockett.
Deans should have a full squad to choose from before Friday night's match against the Hurricanes in Wellington.
Blindside flanker Kieran Read hurt his shin in the 34-7 win over the Waratahs but it will not prevent him being considered for the Hurricanes match.
Meanwhile, the Crusaders maintained their remarkable defensive record this season on Friday night after conceding just one try to the Waratahs.
In six rounds they have leaked just seven tries. Four were against the Western Force.
They have the best defensive record along with the Sharks, although the South African side has played one game less.
"We haven't changed anything drastically; ultimately it is down to the individuals and collective pride," Deans said.
