Woodcock modest over All Blacks feat

Others might tell you about New Zealand prop Tony Woodcock’s upcoming milestone, but not the player himself, says fellow veteran front-rower Keven Mealamu.

Woodcock will make his 100th appearance in an All Blacks starting 15 – and earn his 112th cap overall – when he runs out against Argentina in Christchurch on Friday night.

“He won’t tell you about it and you won’t know about it unless someone else tells you about it,” Mealamu said.

“It’s something we want to celebrate in our actions and do it for Woody.”

Woodcock, 34, said it was a mark that had slipped his mind when he was approaching it.

Defence coach Wayne Smith had mentioned it to him last week, “so it’s pretty cool”.

“It’s been a long time and a lot of good stuff has happened,” he said.

“Obviously it’s a proud moment to bring up that milestone.”

Woodcock missed last season’s Rugby Championship and the end-of-year European tour because of a shoulder injury.

His return to the Test rugby came in 25-16 win over Samoa in Apia last week.

Like Mealamu, Woodcock won’t be back with the Blues in Super Rugby next season and he is keeping his options open as to what the future holds for him.

“I’m just playing it by ear at the moment,” he said.

“I’m obviously feeling good. I just have to keep going and keep improving, and have that drive and commitment to keep on learning and getting better.”

All Blacks coach Steve Hansen is sure Woodcock has the ability to continue his playing career.

“He has been a cornerstone of our scrum and he’s good around the park as well,” Hansen said.

“Watching him run around at the moment, he’s got plenty more left in him too.”

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