Former Hurricanes lock Michael Fatialofa is to undergo surgery after suffering a neck injury playing for Worcester in their English Premiership match against Saracens.

The 27-year-old New Zealander, who helped the Wellington-based side win the 2016 Super Rugby title, was hurt while taking the ball into contact during Saturday’s 62-5 defeat at Allianz Park.

Play was held up for almost 10 minutes as he received medical attention and, having been carried from the pitch on a stretcher, he was taken by ambulance to St Mary’s Hospital in London.

He remains in the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit, with Warriors confirming he is awake and alert and has his family with him.

The club revealed Fatialofa has some bruising and swelling on his spinal cord and will undergo surgery on Monday evening.

A statement read: “Initial scans were positive, showing no broken bones, however, he has some bruising and swelling on his spinal cord.

“He will undergo surgery this evening in order to relieve the pressure caused by the bruising and help restore function.

“Nick Tait, Warriors’ club doctor, and the club’s medical team are in daily contact with Michael’s neurosurgeon.

“Michael and his wife, Tatiana, have been overwhelmed by messages and offers of support from the rugby community across the world.

“Warriors players, staff and club co-owners Colin Goldring and Jason Whittingham have also been closely involved in supporting Michael and his family.”