All Blacks icon poised for shock Test comeback

All Blacks legend Sam Whitelock is considering a shock comeback to the international arena, according to a New Zealand Herald report.

The Herald reported that new All Blacks coach Scott Robertson had approached Whitelock about a return to New Zealand to add to his extraordinary career.

The 35-year-old retired from Tests after the All Blacks lost last year's Rugby World Cup final to South Africa in heartbreaking fashion.

Whitelock is now playing for Pau in France but Robertson reportedly wants to lean on the lock's vast experience at the start of a new era.

Robertson and Whitelock - vastly different personalities - helped deliver the Crusaders seven consecutive Super Rugby titles in a run that is unlikely to ever be repeated.

With 153 Test caps, Whitelock is the second most experienced player in rugby history, behind only Wales icon Alun Wyn Jones (170).

Whitelock was often used off the bench at the World Cup in France but maintained his usual high standards and won the clutch breakdown penalty that knocked Ireland out in an epic quarter-final.

"Whitelock will turn 36 this October, but Robertson and his coaching team believe that the former Crusaders captain could eke out at least one more Test season, possibly two, where he would be in contention to start each Test," the report stated.

"But they also see value in having him back within the squad, where his experience, leadership and mana would bolster the rugby IQ of the whole group."

Whitelock is also a former All Blacks captain and Robertson could potentially ask him to lead his country again.

Incumbent Sam Cane and Crusaders skipper Scott Barrett are other options.

"If that conversation arises, it's certainly something that I'd consider," Barrett said.

"But for now he's put it on us to play well for our clubs."

The All Blacks open their 2024 campaign against England on July 6 in Dunedin.