The Blues coach Pat Lam said the Super Rugby side’s in shock after learning that lock Kurtis Haiu has been diagnosed with cancer.

Haiu initially attributed a persistent pain to the aftermath of contacts during games but when it became more severe, tests and a scan revealed a tumor in his left rib.

The 26 year old will see a specialist early next week and team’s doctor Stephen Kara said the tumor is treatable.

Pat Lam says he’d noticed Haiu’s weight was down but he’s been playing so well there’s been no hint of any health problem.

The Blues take on the Highlanders tomorrow at 7.35pm in Dunedin.