All Blacks trio to return for World Cup - (2025)

Updated: 18/01/2025

World Cup hosts New Zealand have been handed a triple injury boost with the news that Tony Woodcock, Israel Dagg and Isaia Toeava are all looking good bets to return to action in time for the tournament's start in September.

The trio had been left out of the All Black's Tri-Nations squad, with their targets being returning to fitness in time for the World Cup.

Woodcock and Toeava will now line-up this weekend for their respective provincial sides for the forthcoming ITM Cup campaign.

Those looking at the World Cup rugby odds may want to keep an eye on their performances.

Woodcock will turn out for North Harbour as they take on Manawatu, with the 30-year old prop looking to get some valuable minutes under his belt.

The 74-cap forward is one of the All Black's most experienced and consistent performers and head coach Graham Henry will be desperate to have the prop available to him during the World Cup.

New Zealand's most capped prop has been sidelined during the past few months with a foot injury but it appears the problem has now subsided, allowing Woodcock the chance of returning to the All Black's squad.

With Woodcock lining up for North Harbour, 25-year old Toeava will be among the Auckland starting line-up that takes on Taranki this Sunday.

The versatile back had been struggling to shake off a hip injury but finally will be ready to return to action this weekend.

Now the battle will be on the Blues back to prove his fitness to the All Black's management.

Toeava's ability to play anywhere along the back line makes him a valuable asset to the Kiwis and Henry will be keen to have the 25-year-old available for selection. Betfair rugby union fans will know how important he can be.

There is still a worry regarding the fitness of talented youngster Israel Dagg, who has burst onto the international scene over the past 12 months.

The Crusaders' back has been nursing a thigh injury since the final round of the Super Rugby season and has been left out of the Tri-Nations squad.

The coaching staff have remained confident regarding Dagg's potential inclusion in the World Cup squad though and are hopeful of having the talented rookie as part of their plans.

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