Dagg eyeing April comeback

Editor

All Blacks and Crusaders full-back Israel Dagg is aiming to return to action in April after a dislocated shoulder sidelined him last September.

The 27-year-old, who sustained the injury during a Ranfury Shield match for Hawke's Bay, is optimistic about the progress he has made with his recovery.

"I reckon I'm about 80 per cent," Dagg told the New Zealand Newswire.

"There is about six weeks left, so I can top up that last 20."

The 49-Test All Black joined the Crusaders for their pre-season training at the end of November.

"I've been able to work on everything, like my skills, which I probably haven't worked on for a while," said Dagg.

"It's been awesome. I've really enjoyed it. Now it's just that timing. You want to get out there, you want to train, to run around with the boys. 

"You want to play some games and have some fun."

Dagg had limited Super Rugby game time in 2015 after injuries hindered his participation and missed out on World Cup selection, but he said he's moved on from last year's dissapointments.

"Last year was last year – I've put that behind me," he added.

"I'm just looking forward to the future and this year. I've given myself two years to try and get back into that jersey. If it doesn't happen, it doesn't happen."

Dagg, who will start his eighth season with the Crusaders after two campaigns with the Highlanders, brings expererience to the Christchurch-based outfit who have lost the services of experienced veterans Richie McCaw and Dan Carter. 

"I think the main thing for me is, if I'm going to talk now, I have to do the walk," explained Dagg.

"So just train and play well, and that's how people are going to follow you."