The All Blacks number eight Kieran Read has declared himself fit and ready to take part in the World Cup but concedes there was a time when he thought he might not.
Read is one of three All Blacks in the 30-strong World Cup squad yet to play at the tournament, having been unable to play after suffering an ankle injury in the tri nations final loss to Australia.
Mils Muliaina and Zach Guildford are the other yet to play but along with Read appear set to take the field at some stage during Sunday's final pool game against Canada.
Read says it's been difficult having to watch while others were getting to take part in the tournament and says he contemplated not even being able to play.