Retallick a good chance to be fit for World Cup, says Hansen

All Blacks head coach Steve Hansen believes there is a “good possibility” Brodie Retallick will be fit for the Rugby World Cup despite the lock dislocating his shoulder on Saturday.

Retallick came off in the second half of New Zealand’s 16-16 draw against South Africa in the Rugby Championship.

It sparked fears Retallick could miss the World Cup, which begins in Japan in September, but Hansen was more optimistic on Sunday.

“He’s only dislocated it, which means that there’s a good possibility he could make the World Cup,” a relieved Hansen told a news conference.

“No timeline yet to when he’s going to return to play, but hopefully he’ll be available to go to the World Cup.”

UPDATE: Head Coach Steve Hansen said Brodie Retallick suffered a dislocated shoulder in last night’s Test draw against South Africa. He says while no timeline is being given on his return to play, the selectors were hopeful that he would be available for RWC selection.

— All Blacks (@AllBlacks) July 28, 2019

The All Blacks are in Pool B for the World Cup, alongside the Springboks, Italy, Namibia and Canada.

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