McCaw's Tri-Nations in doubt

All Blacks star flanker Richie McCaw's Tri-Nations is in doubt with the ABs vice-captain still struggling to overcome the head-aches that have been plaguing him since the team's victory over England in June.

Richie McCaw: Battered

All Blacks management have reportedly confirmed that McCaw's place in the 26-man squad to travel to Sydney, Australia to face the Wallabies and then to Johannesburg, South Africa to meet the Springboks under threat.

While doctor Graham Paterson said that the Crusaders star's condition continues to improve, All Blacks assistant coach Wayne Smith revealed that McCaw would not make the trip unless he was 100 percent fit.

McCaw, who will see a specialist on Monday, has not taken any part in the Tri-Nations to date and his replacement Marty Holah has done well in his absence and just how wise it would be to fast-track McCaw back into the team could be up for debate.

If McCaw is unable to make the trip his place in the squad will be filled by Highlanders loose forward Craig Newby.

The All Blacks are currently unbeaten in the tournament after narrowly beating the Springboks 23-21 on the weekend following their 16-7 victory over the Wallabies and lie well clear of the other two sides on the log.