All Blacks coach Steve Hansen has teased the playing return of hooker Dane Coles, following his extended spell on the sidelines from an ACL injury sufferend on last year's end of year tour.
Coles, 31, hasn't played since November's injury suffered against France, but has been a part of the All Blacks' squad during this year's Rugby Championship.
Speaking at today's media conference following last night's 46-24 win over Argentina in Nelson, Hansen said that everything was on track for Coles' return.
"Mentally, he's good, he's starting to get back to his annoying self - which is great," Hansen said.
"Physically, he's starting to look like a real athlete again, he's starting to get some definition back in his calves.
"We'll see him back on the park soon I'd say."
Coles will likely return for Wellington in the Mitre 10 Cup, instead of next week's Test with South Africa in the capital.
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