Retallick returns, Cane in doubt

The Chiefs will welcome lock Brodie Retallick back from a pectoral injury next weekend but may be without loose forward Sam Cane.

Cane could be facing another short stint on the sidelines after copping a head knock in the Chiefs’ 24-19 win over the Brumbies last night.

The Chiefs captain was taken from the field for a head injury assessment in the 37th minute after making a trysaving tackle.

While coach Colin Cooper said he was told the No 7 passed his assessment, he opted not to risk him and instead gave the returning Lachlan Boshier some extended minutes.

He said Retallick would be available for the match against the Hurricanes after a prolonged stint out of action, and when asked if they would look at resting Cane next weekend as a precaution, Cooper didn’t rule it out.

“We could do that. We just need to see where we are and what are we playing for . . . if it can’t be fourth, then other things could come into play.”

Cane was one of three injury concerns the Chiefs took out of the win over the Brumbies, with midfielder Sean Wainui picking up a shoulder injury and hooker Nathan Harris coming from the pitch around the 40-minute mark with a leg injury.

Immediately after the match, Cooper didn’t know what damage Wainui had done but indicated Harris would be fine.

“He had a bruised thigh in scoring his try, I think — he’ll be okay. Again, with our hookers playing so well, there’s no point in risking a player.”