McCaw return lifts All Blacks

Richie McCaw © Gallo Images

The return of captain Richie McCaw from injury has given New Zealand a much-needed lift ahead of their Tri-Nations series opener against Australia on Aug. 18.

The All Blacks struggled to produce their best last month when the flanker was out injured but the return of McCaw, Rodney So'oialo and Sitiveni Sivivatu has galvanised the side.

"They've made a difference already," New Zealand coach Graham Henry told reporters on Thursday.

"Their confidence rubs off on other people they know what they're about, they've been here before, they know what is required so they add a lot to the unit."

McCaw, who was cleared to return playing after injuring his knee, said he was ready to play again despite lacking match fitness.

"The first couple of games are hard work but you accept that and just get out and get into it," he said.

"I guess (I have) a bit of experience, having gone through it a couple of times.

"In a team like the All Blacks, you've got pretty good fellas around you and you only need to do your job. If you get that right, you know you'll perform reasonably well."

McCaw's return has also left the Australians on edge with Wallabies coach Robbie Deans, who coached the forward for several years at the Canterbury Crusaders, expecting him to have a major impact.

"He will bring an absolute hunger and enthusiasm to the group, because he hates watching, he hates watching average performances and he certainly doesn't like losing to the Wallabies," Deans said.

"When a bloke has got that sort of focus and hunger and enthusiasm, it rubs off."

Read more on the Tri-Nations page.

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