New Zealand receive Brodie Retallick boost ahead of Hamilton clash

New Zealand have received a much-needed boost ahead of the fourth round Rugby Championship clash against Argentina as veteran lock Brodie Retallick is added back to the squad.

Retallick was sidelined due to a cheekbone fracture that he sustained during the third Test against Ireland but made a brief comeback for Hawke’s Bay last Saturday where he featured for 55 minutes.

With New Zealand losing their previous game against the Pumas - also their first defeat against them on New Zealand soil, head coach Ian Foster will be hoping to use all the experience available to remain alive in the competition.

“The body is good and the cheekbone came through – it’s still in one piece," said Retallick at the All Blacks’ hotel on Monday afternoon.

“It was exciting. It was 10 years since I last played for Hawke’s Bay, so it was awesome to get back and represent the region.

“Initially they said [I could return] six weeks post surgery and six weeks was on Sunday, so I asked the question about whether Saturday afternoon was much different to Sunday morning or Monday and the surgeon was happy."

When asked about his selection in the upcoming clash against Argentina, Retallick said the decision lies with Foster and the team management.

“I’m not sure what the plan is,” he added.

“I got through 55-odd minutes on Saturday and the body came through okay. Whether that’s enough for the coaches to now pick me here or go back to Hawke’s Bay, I’m not sure.”

The defeat was also New Zealand's second in the ongoing tournament as they now are at third position in the table that is currently being topped by Argentina with nine points.