22 Jun 2010

Ranger called into All Black squad

7:50 am on 22 June 2010

The Northland three-quarter Rene Ranger has been called into the All Blacks squad as injury cover ahead of the second Test against Wales in Hamilton this weekend.

Ranger, who previously assembled with the All Blacks before the June internationals, played for the New Zealand Barbarians against New Zealand Maori earlier this month.

He has been called in to cover injuries to fullback Israel Dagg (concussion) and centre Conrad Smith (eye) who were injured in the All Blacks Test win over Wales at the weekend.

All Blacks Doctor Deb Robinson says Dagg is making good progress from his concussion but still has mild symptoms so won't be available this weekend while Smith was reviewed by a specialist at Waikato Hospital yesterday and, while his eye is settling well, he too won't be available to play this weekend.

The All Blacks squad to play Wales in the second Test in Hamilton this weekend will be named later today.