New Zealand loose forward Dalton Papali’i has recovered from injury and is in line to feature against the Springboks in Cape Town on Saturday.
All Blacks assistant coach Scott Hansen confirmed to the Kiwi media that Papali’i is likely to return for their Rugby Championship clash at Cape Town Stadium.
The 26-year-old Papali’i, who missed the 31-27 loss at Ellis Park due to a thumb injury, is expected to bolster the All Blacks’ back-row stocks.
“He is going through the medical procedure,” Hansen was quoted by Stuff.nz. “We have had positive reports, so at this stage likely to be available for selection – to be confirmed.”
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With Sam Cane starting at openside flanker last week, Papali’i could either provide power and accuracy off the bench or start, with Cane dropping to the wood.
The All Blacks were punished late in the game at Ellis Park, conceding penalties and losing control as the Boks surged to victory. Hansen acknowledged the errors, saying, “That was a result of – there was an accumulation of pressure on us.
“We need to be better in our decision-making and accuracy there.”
Photo: Hannah Peters/Getty Images
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Src: sarugbymag.co.za
