Leading New Zealand stallion Tavistock has been withdrawn from service for the rest of the breeding season after sustaining an injury.

Cambridge Stud says Tavistock has suffered an injury in his paddock which means he will not be able to complete his book of mares.

He has covered 76 mares this year with 43 in foal.

It has already been a challenging year for Cambridge Stud, with the death of champion racehorse and new sire Roaring Lion, who succumbed to colic.

"It has been a difficult year and naturally we are disappointed that Tavistock will not be able to complete his book for this season," Cambridge chief executive Henry Plumptre said.

"However, long-term his health is the only thing that matters, particularly with the representation he has coming through and we will focus on having him back for the 2020 season."

A dual Group One-winning son of Montjeu, Tavistock is the sire of 18 individual stakes winners, including Group One winners Werther, Tarzino, Volkstok'n'barrell and Tavago.