New Zealand's World Cup preparations have received a significant boost with key players nearing a return from injury. Coach Darren Bazeley confirmed that defenders Liberato Cacace and Michael Boxall are expected back in action soon.
Cacace, a left back, has been sidelined since February with a hamstring issue but is now back in full training and hopes to play this weekend. Boxall, who has been out with an adductor strain, is also fit and available for selection, according to Bazeley.
Captain Chris Wood, the nation's record scorer, has also returned for Nottingham Forest after an injury scare. Several other players are also on the mend, including midfielder Sarpreet Singh and defenders Francis de Vries and Nando Pijnaker.
Veteran winger Kosta Barbarouses is also expected to be fit for the World Cup. The All Whites, making their return to the tournament for the first time since 2010, will begin their campaign against Iran on June 15 in Los Angeles.