‘It’s a unique situation’: All Black Will Jordan ‘really close’ to returning

Crusaders coach Scott Robertson has provided a positive update on Will Jordan, saying the All Black is “really close” to returning for the defending Super Rugby Pacific champions.

Jordan was ruled out of the All Blacks’ end-of-season tour with an inner-ear issue, and has missed the opening eight rounds of the competition so far.

Last month, assistant coach James Marshall said the utility back was close to returning for the title holders – and highlighted Friday night’s clash with the Rebels as a potential target for Jordan.

But when the team list came out on Wednesday, Jordan’s name was nowhere to be found. Instead, Fergus Burke has retained his spot in the No. 15 jersey once again.

Speaking with reporters, coach Scott Robertson said Jordan “wasn’t quite” ready to return in round nine – but insisted the All Black wasn’t “too far away.”

“He’s really close,” Robertson said. “He trained well, but just wasn’t quite there.

“He’s working hard and he’s not far away. It’s week by week, especially for someone who’s had this for a period of time.

“You just work with them. It’s new, its’ a unique situation from a health point of view.

“You just respect the week that’s in front of you. He just wasn’t quite ready this week.”

The Crusaders have named a star-studded side for their second trip to Melbourne this season, which includes some world-class talent in the second row.

All Blacks Scott Barrett and Sam Whitelock have both been named to return this week following stints on the sideline.

Barrett will captain the side in his first appearance since the round six win over the Queensland Reds in Brisbane, while Whitelock has been ruled out through injury since playing the Blues earlier this season.