Blow for Coles, McKenzie called in

All Blacks hooker Dane Coles needs a miracle to play in the remaining British & Irish Lions matches, according to head coach Steve Hansen.

Coles, who has been out with concussion, was not considered as an option for the Hurricanes, who face the tourists on Tuesday in Wellington.

While Coles was cleared of concussion he was regarded as being in pre-season mode and needed time to rebuild. Hansen said unless there’s a miracle he wouldn’t face the Lions and was unlikely to play for the ‘Canes in the first or second weeks of Super Rugby when it resumes.

“If they continue on into the competition he should be ready to play for them,” coach Hansen explained to the All Blacks official website.

Meanwhile, Chiefs full-back Damian McKenzie has been called into their squad for Ben Smith while he goes through concussion protocols. As cover for Ryan Crotty (hamstring) Jack Goodhue remains with the squad while Akira Ioane would also stay due to Matt Todd’s calf strain.