Highlanders attack coach Richard Whiffin says halfback Folau Fakatava is on track to make a remarkable return to the field after re-injuring his ACL late last year.
The recent All Blacks debutant was ruled out of the end-of-season Northern Tour with his injury but opted for a non-surgical rehabilitation approach in the hopes of making Ian Foster’s September Rugby World Cup squad.
While his return was initially deemed a race against time, Whiffin says the scrum-half has already taken to the field in the Highlanders’ pre-season training.
“He’s tracking well,” Whiffin told SENZ Breakfast.
“He’s back on the training field (and) is in our 15 on 15 so he’s worked really hard on his rehab.”
Having already returned to Highlanders training sessions, Whiffin says Fakatava has also been in and around the All Blacks camp as the squad completes additional pre-season testing and training.
“He was obviously with the ABs (All Blacks) the last couple of days so he’s tracking well for being available for the season,” he added.
“He is a weapon that we want to be able to use.”
With Fakatava’s return imminent and international recruits Martin Bogado (Argentina) and Freddie Burns (England) heading south, the Highlanders look set for a huge year ahead.
Martin Bogado has entered the chat 😤
— Highlanders (@Highlanders) January 16, 2023
Kia ora to our newest Argentine outside back who joined the team this week!#superrugbypacific #highlandersbrothers #highlanders pic.twitter.com/lSu3kDnj3b
The franchise’s 2023 Super Rugby Pacific season kicks off on February 25 against the Blues at Forsyth Barr Stadium.