Veteran All Blacks hooker Dane Coles has pulled his name from captaincy talks this week ahead of the Japan Test in Tokyo, saying it is an added pressure he doesn't need right now.
The 31‑year‑old has been sidelined from rugby for 11 months since suffering a knee injury.
Coles admitted if he is selected to play against Japan, his focus will be getting his key roles right at hooker.
Loose forward Luke Whitelock could be another option to skipper the All Blacks side as 22 of the 23 players that played against the Wallabies last Saturday are expected to leave for London this week.
Richie Mo'unga is set to remain in Japan with Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi in line to start at halfback.
The All Blacks will take on Japan at 5.45pm this Saturday.
[Source:Stuff.co.nz]
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