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All Blacks captain Read close to long awaited return
By Online Editors
All Blacks captain Kieran Read is nearing a return to rugby, after six months out of the game following spinal surgery at the end of 2017. He has been able to successfully train with the All Blacks in the lead up to the third test, causing a nuisance against the starting line-up in opposed sessions.
"Reado is making some good progress so you should see him on the park in a couple of weeks – maybe for Counties," coach Steve Hansen said.
"He's been a pain in the butt at training. The boys are getting sick of him. He's been good. He's been in the opposition - he's been as niggly as hell, so he'll be ready to go shortly."
A return to rugby beckons with a pre-season hitout when Counties play Tasman next week. Should he manage that successfully, he will be in the frame to return for the Crusaders in July. With 109 test caps, he will be a big boost for Scott Robertson's side looking to capture back-to-back Super Rugby titles.
"He should be right for some games for the Crusaders after that (playing for Counties), so it is quite exciting for us," Hansen said.
"As I say he has been quite niggly the last couple of weeks - the boys are sick of him.
"We will be pleased to give him a game."
Read's return schedule had aimed for a July return so looks on track to fulfill that. The Crusaders finish with two home matches against the Highlanders and Blues which Read might feature in, before the playoffs.
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It was like watching men play schoolboys
Go to commentsI'd rate the brothers Hendricks a point or two lower. Jaden has really not delivered on his early promise and Jordan's kicking at posts was quite erratic. Amongst other things.
I was really surprised that DuhDuh was replaced and not Jordan. DuhDuh had a great game and just underlined his class in a backline that was not firing on all cylinders.
Damian Willemse was missed. Hopefully he'll be back to full fitness and have an injury free 2025 (and '26 and '27 and so on until he decides to retire to spend time with his grandchildren).
RG was great. What an athlete.
Very happy that Hanekom made his debut at last. He gave a good account of himself and will hopefully grow into his role on the international stage.
All things considered, this was another frustrating Bok performance. Even though it was a comfortable win, it wasn't a commanding win. This Welsh team should've been put away by a far larger margin.
But I have faith in Dr Rassie. He knows more than I do. Bring on 2027 😁
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