All Blacks look set to unleash Read on Lions in Eden Park Test

New Zealand look set for a major pre-Test series boost with captain Kieran Read on course to face the British and Irish Lions in Saturday’s Eden Park opener.

Read’s injury-hit year began with a wrist problem, while the latest setback – a broken thumb – has ruled him out since late April.

But the 97-cap number eight looks set to return this weekend, with All Blacks team-mate Sam Whitelock and assistant coach Ian Foster leading acclaim for a player whose impact on the Lions series could prove considerable.

“This whole year, Kieran has had bad luck through injury and he has been adding to the team, with the Crusaders and here (with the All Blacks),” lock Whitelock said.

“Even though he hasn’t been out there on the field, it has been great having him driving those things.

“Now he is hopefully ready to go, he will hopefully bring that Kieran Read way of playing.”

Foster delivered an upbeat fitness bulletin about Read, who took over as skipper from Richie McCaw after the 2015 World Cup, when he spoke to reporters in Auckland yesterday.

Head coach Steve Hansen will announce his starting line-up for the opening Lions clash tonight, UK time, and Read looks set to be in it.

“He didn’t want to miss it (the first Test). He is desperate to play. He is our leader, so that’s natural,” said Foster.

Foster also hailed Read’s captaincy since he succeeded a retired McCaw following New Zealand’s victorious 2015 World Cup campaign.

“He has been a big part of the leadership group for a long time now, and just the way he grew into the (captaincy) role last year,” Foster added.

“He has a very inclusive leadership style and encourages a lot of decisionmaking from the group around him.”

Kieran didn’t want to miss the first Test. He is desperate to play. He is our leader, so that’s natural.

IAN FOSTER