New Zealand captain Richie McCaw has revealed that he is "three or four weeks away" from returning to action.
The 32-year-old has not played this year after triggering a clause in his contract which allowed him to take a break from rugby in a bid to rest niggling injuries.
However, it is understood that McCaw could return for club side Christchurch next month.
"It's still three or four weeks away yet, that's the plan. My aim is to be in better nick than I have in the past couple of years," he told Sky Sports News.
"With my foot injury and so on, I've always been rushed. I wanted to not only have a break but also have a chance to get myself in shape, which I've done."
McCaw could also be involved for Super 15 outfit Canterbury Crusaders.
