Damian McKenzie is expected to make his first appearance of the Super Rugby season this weekend

McKenzie has recovered from an ankle injury and coach Colin Cooper says the signs are good for him and two other senior players, Brodie Retallick and Shaun Stevenson.

Meanwhile All Blacks first five Beauden Barrett is a possibility to return a week early from leave to front for the Hurricanes against the Crusaders.

Family is the only thing weighing on Stephen Kearney's mind as looks to extend his tenure as head coach of the Warriors.

Kearney's off contract at the end of the year, but CEO Cameron George says the two parties are nearing an agreement to retain him.

His family still lives in Brisbane.

Dylan Kennett is slowly coming to terms with his 11th hour scratching from the New Zealand Cycling squad for the World Track Championships in Poland.

Hours before flying out, Kennett has been ruled ineligible by the UCI, having not competed in at least one World Cup meet this season.

Kennett has been managing a knee issue and says while he's gutted, it will aid his recovery, resting for the next few weeks.