Rugby: Brodie Retallick to return but Sam Cane in doubt for Chiefs

Chiefs captain Sam Cane is in doubt for next week's clash. Photo / Photosport

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 on Saturday night.

The Chiefs captain was taken from the field for a head injury assessment in the 37th minute, after making a try-saving tackle. While coach Colin Cooper was told the No7 passed his assessment, he opted not to risk him and instead gave the returning Lachlan Boshier some extended minutes.

He might take a similar approach next weekend in their match against the Hurricanes, having now officially confirmed their spot in the playoffs.

"He tells me he passed [the HIA], I said you can stay off," Cooper said after the match.
"We've got [Mitch Karpik] sitting there also, so there's no point risking Sam."

He added 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… 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 shoulder injury and hooker Nathan Harris coming off the pitch 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."