Dave Rennie has confirmed Damian McKenzie's early departure during the All Blacks' 54-0 midweek win over the Sharks in Durban was precautionary, with the fullback expected to be available for the first Test against the Springboks.
McKenzie twisted his ankle landing on a high ball in the opening minute and was withdrawn in the 33rd minute. Rennie played down concerns post-match: "He just twisted his ankle when he came down on that high ball in the first minute. He was running around. We had it strapped, but it was just a little bit ginger. So we decided just to play it safe. He's not too bad. We'd expect him to be fine for the first test."
With a week and a half before the Test series opener, McKenzie is expected to be rested for the All Blacks' final warm-up match against the Bulls to allow the ankle to fully recover.
Rennie is also yet to name a replacement for Billy Proctor, who suffered a fractured shoulder blade in the 38-21 win over the Stormers and has been ruled out for 10 to 12 weeks. The two leading candidates are experienced fly-half Richie Mo'unga and utility back Du'Plessis Kirifi. Rennie indicated the result of the Sharks match — and any further injuries from it — would inform which direction he goes. An announcement is expected within days.