All Blacks captain, Richie McCaw yesterday dropped his weightiest hint yet that he is about to sign a New Zealand Rugby Union contract that will commit him to remain with the All Blacks beyond the World Cup.

It was recently reported that French club Racing Metro was prepared to offer McCaw $6.6 million over three years.

Now, it seemed McCaw wants to prolong that buzz.

Asked if a decision could be announced within a couple of weeks, McCaw replied: "Hopefully."

Despite recovering from the fractured bone in the foot that sidelined him from the opening six rounds of Super 15, McCaw has been left out of the Crusaders team to face the Bulls in Timaru tomorrow.

Instead, Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder has enlisted rookie Matt Todd to start his seventh straight match in the No.7 jersey to ensure McCaw is ready for the Chiefs next weekend.

The Crusaders and Bulls match kicks off 7.35pm tomorrow.

Meanwhile, in a lone match tonight Highlanders take on Cheetahs at 7.35pm.


Story by: Dhanjay Deo