Rugby: Chris Jack's AB plan

Lock Chris Jack is about to end his tenure in South African domestic rugby before returning to New Zealand to have a crack at reclaiming his All Blacks jersey.

There had been speculation that Jack would agree to extend his stay with Western Province in the Currie Cup.

However, their coach Allister Coetzee revealed the Canterbury forward will depart to take up his contract with the New Zealand Rugby Union after playing against the Free State Cheetahs in Bloemfontein on Saturday.

Jack, who turned 31 on Saturday, is likely to return with the Crusaders in next year's Super 14, although that is still to be confirmed.

Reports out of South Africa say the 67-test veteran will undergo an operation on his hand before beginning training for the Super 14.

- NZPA