Rugby: Woodcock trains but still in doubt

Tony Woodcock receives attention during the Blues' first Super 14 home game. Photo / Greg Bowker

Loosehead prop Tony Woodcock was back training yesterday but there are no guarantees about his return to Super 14 action with the Blues.

Woodcock managed some gym work on a bike and with weights but then had to stop as he felt the effects of the viral inner-ear infection which has left him feeling sick and removed him from the last two games.

Team doctor Stephen Kara said Woodcock might recover in 48 hours but he had lost some condition and might also still feel unwell in three or four weeks.

The prop, who had seen an ear, throat and nose specialist this week, had some mild hearing loss and a viral infection in his inner ear.

"Essentially it means he has lost balance and that is his biggest problem," the team doctor said.

The prop felt a little unsteady after driving from his Kaukapakapa farm to Eden Park training yesterday but that issue would come right - the question was when.

"There is no treatment, no drug treatment so it is a time factor," Dr Kara added.

"It will come right I just can't tell you when."

Injured flankers Justin Collins, Josh Blackie were both likely to be fit for action after next week's bye.