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Ranger and McCaw make All Blacks squad 4 views 0 Images
30 July 2013 by Englandfan
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Rene Ranger has managed to maintain his place in the All Blacks squad despite his impending departure to play club rugby in France, with captain, Richie McCaw, also making the training party named by Steve Hansen ahead of this year’s Rugby Championship.
Ranger, who will leave for Montpellier after the ITM Cup, brings plenty of versatility to play across the backline, making him a valuable component of Hansen's side with Cory Jane still sidelined with injury. Facing criticism from rugby betting pundits, Ranger proved his ability to play on the international stage with two sparkling cameos against France in June before earning a starting spot in the final test at New Plymouth.
While still available for selection, head coach Hansen has made it clear Ranger is part of his plans.
"We've always said we'll pick the best players that are available and at this point he is available, so we'll be looking to use him if that continues to be the case,'' Hansen insisted.
Richie McCaw’s return to the squad comes despite him only playing one match and making two short cameos off the Crusaders bench in the Super Rugby play-offs since returning to action. The flanker’s return to the squad will be a huge boost, but there are still nagging concerns as to whether McCaw will be able to jump straight back into international rugby
Despite suffering a slight neck problem during his brief appearance off the bench for the Crusaders in their Super semi-final loss to the Chiefs, Hansen - as well as many fans who bet on rugby - has backed McCaw to be fit and ready for action by the time the four-team tournament gets underway with a clash against the Aussies.
"He's in pretty good shape. By the time it gets to August 17, he'll have had two more games so at this point he's coming along nicely,” Hansen said about his returning captain.
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