Carter cleared to play

 

All Blacks fly-half Dan Carter has been cleared to play in next week’s third Test against France in New Plymouth.

A cracked hand bone sidelined Carter from the first Test in Auckland, won 23-13 and Saturday’s second Test victory which allowed the All Blacks to wrap up the series with a game to spare.

But coach Steve Hansen said his back-line general was ready to play again and he should have a full squad to pick from for the third Test in Hamilton, including captain Kieran Read and lock Sam Whitelock.

Read was reduced to a near walk for a period late in the first half on Saturday when he suffered a blow to the back and Whitelock required treatment for a knock to an elbow.

“Everyone should be available for selection, including DC (Dan Carter), so that’s good news,” Hansen said.

“But clearly there’s a few guys that are sore. Reado (Read) being one, and Sam Whitelock has got a sore elbow just to name a couple. Everyone is expected to be available.”

Lock Brodie Retallick pulled a hamstring last week and is expected to be out for three weeks but Hansen said he would not be bringing in a replacement.

He also indicated he may make changes for the third Test, possibly looking at new squad members Charles Piutau, Francis Saili and Steven Luatua.