New Zealand superstar Sonny Bill Williams has been cleared to play against South Africa in Wellington on Saturday.
But while scans on his shoulder indicate that he has fully recovered from injury, Williams missed training yesterday because of illness.
All Blacks assistant coach Ian Foster explains: “Sonny had his scan yesterday and he’s all clear, ready to go, but he was sick this morning so he didn’t train, but the good news is his scan’s all clear.
“He’s in contention to play, it’s just some bug or something.”
The world champions are riding a 15-match winning streak in the Rugby Championship.
And will head into the match as heavy favourites against the Springboks, who lost 23-18 to a depleted Wallabies side in Brisbane last week and split their opening two matches with Argentina.
Foster, though, is adamant that the past counts for nothing and he believes the Boks will bring their best game on Saturday.
Of the encounter, Foster adds: “Our whole mindset when we’re preparing is based on an opposition who can play at their best.
“We know that they’re a very good team. We saw them play in June and beat a very good England team 2-1.
“We know they can play.”
Fellow centre Crotty was also in contention for the match in Wellington after being cleared of a head knock that triggered concussion protocols.
Flanker Sam Cane is also back in the frame after being given a week off to get over a knock.