All Blacks and Crusaders number eight Kieran Read is set to make his return to Super Rugby against the Force this weekend.
All Blacks coach Steve Hansen indicated his star No 8 was likely to make his much awaited return for the Crusaders after running to his full strength during training with the team in Wellington yesterday.
However, it remains unclear whether Read, who has not played for five weeks, and first five eighth Aaron Cruden, just back from a broken thumb, will have enough rugby under their belts to make the cut for the first test against England on June 7th.
Meanwhile, Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder has not yet named his side to play the Force.
On Friday the Crusaders will take on the Force at 7.35pm followed by the Reds and Highlanders game at 9.40pm.
Story by: Aliki Bia
