Ryan Crotty has been being spotted training with the All Blacks at today's captain's run at Eden Park after suffering a head knock last weekend.
Crotty was forced off the field in Sydney after a head clash with teammate Jack Goodhue - his sixth concussion in 18 months.
However, despite being ruled out from tomorrow night's Bledisloe Cup contest, the Crusaders star was back out on the pitch smiling and trading kicks with Damian McKenzie this afternoon.
All Blacks coach Steve Hansen said the day after the All Blacks' 38-13 win in Sydney he was "concerned" but trusted his medical staff.
The All Blacks coach said a specialist had already given the midfielder the all clear after he was knocked out in the opening Bledisloe Cup Test. (Source: Other)
"It concerns us definitely, that’s why he’s already seen a specialist and they’ve given him the all-clear," Hansen said.
"From our understanding, as long as you fully recover and don’t go back when you’re not fully recovered then you’re okay."
Hansen said Crotty was "unlucky".
Smith has had a history with head knocks and says Crotty is on the improve after he was knocked out in the Bledisloe Cup Test. (Source: Other)
"Last night was real freaky, friendly fire from Jack Goodhue, straight in the face and it would have knocked most of us out."
The latest head knock had some punters and critics alike question whether the 29-year-old should have a serious look at his future in the sport, but assistant coach Ian Foster said on Tuesday the decision rests solely with the midfielder.
The 1 NEWS sports reporter says the All Blacks midfielder has told him in the past that recovery times differ with each concussion. (Source: Other)
"He's taken a blow, you go through protocols, and there's no pressure on him whatsoever to come back and play in a hurry," Foster said.
"The good thing is that's in his hands. I don't think it's up to us or anyone else to decide what he wants to do."
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