Gradual return for All Blacks to domestic action

Members of the All Blacks' Tri-Nations rugby squad will gradually return to Air New Zealand Cup action this month.

The New Zealand Rugby Union today said the return date for each individual would be determined by their physical workload and time in camp at both international and provincial level.

The majority of players have two weeks off.

However, winger Sitiveni Sivivatu is down to make an early return and will be available for Waikato on September 16.

A group of 16 are due to resume provincial rugby on September 23 -- Jerry Collins, Jimmy Cowan, Jason Eaton, Rico Gear, Andrew Hore, Chris Jack, Byron Kelleher, Luke McAlister, Aaron Mauger, Anton Oliver, Greg Rawlinson, Joe Rokocoko, Neemia Tialata, Isaia Toeava, Sam Tuitupou and Piri Weepu.

Another eight All Blacks will be available the following week, including Dan Carter, Carl Hayman, Doug Howlett, Keven Mealamu, Mils Muliaina, Rodney So'oialo, Ali Williams, and Tony Woodcock.

Captain Richie McCaw, who has played extensively in the Tri-Nations, will have additional time to recondition and the flanker is due back in action in the first weekend of October.

Recovery from injury will dictate the return of Leon MacDonald, Chris Masoe and Reuben Thorne, while Greg Somerville's torn achilles will likely sideline him for six months.

John Afoa and Marty Holah, rushed to South Africa last week when the All Blacks suffered a series of injuries, will be available this weekend to play for Auckland and Waikato, respectively.

- NZPA