Sonny Bill Williams long awaited return to the rugby field could be as early as this weekend.
The Blues midfielder is available for selection for this weekend's Super Rugby match against the Highlanders in Dunedin.
Williams has not played rugby since rupturing his achilles tendon during the New Zealand Sevens' Rio Olympics campaign.
While the 31‑year‑old is considered fit to play, a minor foot injury could halt his return for another week.
The Blues team will be named on Thursday.
Meanwhile, the Highlanders will take on the Blues at 7.35pm Saturday
In other matches, the Hurricanes will face the Waratahs at 7.35pm Friday, while the Brumbies will meet the Reds at 9.45pm Saturday. The Chiefs play the Stormers at 3.15am Sunday.
