April return for McCaw

New Zealand’s World Cup winning captain Richie McCaw looks set to make a return to action in April after finally undergoing surgery on his long-term foot injury. Those watching rugby league live online saw the Canterbury Crusaders star played through the pain barrier as he led the All Blacks to World Cup glory last year, although, an operation had to wait until last week, which required the removal of a screw from the foot which had been inserted before the tournament.

The flanker will now have to wait until April before making a return to competitive action, with McCaw admitting he was determined make sure he completely recovers from the injury before returning for the Canterbury club in their Super 15 campaign.

“The foot is really good. I've just started back running.”

“I'll progress over the next few weeks to hopefully get back out on the field soon, but hopefully it's all behind me.”

“By March, I should be pretty close to knowing when I'll be back, but I'd say some time in April.”

Now the target for the 31-year old will be for him to return to the fold in time for the Crusaders’ trip to South Africa at the beginning of April, where the Kiwis will take on the Lions (twice), the Bulls and then the Stormers on April 14. Playing in all four may be a step too far for McCaw, but the Crusaders will be hoping to have influential captain involved in some part of the mini-tour.

After an impressive season last year, the Crusaders will be looking to go one better this time around and top the league. Having a fully fit McCaw available to them will be integral to those targets this season and is good new for those who have decided to bet on rugby league in the Crusaders favour.