In 2017, Brodie Retallick's family was rocked by tragedy.
The All Blacks lock was part of a group to enjoy some time off when the side travelled to face Argentina in Buenos Aires in September, then withdrew from selection for tests in South Africa, Australia and the Northern‑Hemisphere tour after he and wife Niki lost their baby boy prematurely.
Retallick spent the ensuing four months spending time with Niki and their one‑year‑old daughter Sienna, before returning to the training paddock with the Chiefs this week.
Retallick last played a competitive match of rugby on September 16 ‑ in the All Blacks' 57‑0 win over South Africa.
The Chiefs were set to be somewhat of a new‑look team in 2018, with the likes of Aaron Cruden, Tawera Kerr‑Barlow and James Lowe having departed the side at the end of their last campaign.
Meanwhile new head coach Colin Cooper has confirmed Damian McKenzie would start the season as the first‑choice No.10, leaving the fullback jersey up for grabs, while the No.11 and No.14 jerseys were expected to be heavily contested.
The Chiefs begin their Super Rugby campaign against the defending champion Crusaders in Christchurch on February 24.
Source: NZHerald
