Retallick ready to rock and roll

All Black’s colossus Brodie Retallick says he is ready and eager to take on the Wallabies a week from tomorrow, following his return from a shoulder injury.

However his return may not be so rushed, as he hasn’t had game time since his injury against Aregntina during the Rugby Championship. Coach Steve Hansen may manage his return a bit more carefully than just thrusting him back into the setup.

“I’ll do a bit more progression in Japan but it’s looking good,” said Retallick prior to boarding.

“From my point of view the shoulder is pretty much good to go. It would be good to get through a little bit more work but we’ll have to wait and see.”

The 27 year old, 71 test lock is set to be put through the paces this week at contact training, with an assessment on his fitness made thereafter.

“I’d be keen for him to play against Australia too but we’ll just have to see how he gets through training first,” remarked Hansen.

While Retallick is eager to take on the Wallabies, there’s a good chance Hansen and co might hold him back in an effort to conserve him for the latter tests against England and Ireland, where his locking class would be sorely missed were he to not be fit.

Retallick is currently one of, if not the best, lock in the international game and the All Black’s missed his physicality and finesse in their two tests against the Springboks this year.