Cardiff back row star Josh Navidi could yet come into contention for Wales’ final two Six Nations matches.
The 28-cap Grand Slam winner has been sidelined since dislocating his shoulder against the Bulls in early October.
It was expected he would miss the entire Championship campaign, having already sat out all the autumn Tests.
But Wales coach Wayne Pivac hinted at more positive news on the weekend when he said it was hoped the 31-year-old would be back “very shortly” for Cardiff.
And now Arms Park director of rugby Dai Young has confirmed Navidi is closing in on a return.
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He could make his comeback away to Ulster on Friday, March 4, which would potentially see him enter the mix for Wales’ last two Six Nations matches at home to France (March 11) and Italy (March 19).
“Josh is not too far away,” said Cardiff boss Young.
“He’s back in non-contact training this week, just to get amongst it really.
“It was great to see him out there training with the boys.
“We are not going to rush him, but he’s done so much work.
“When you see him out there, it looks like he’s never been away.
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“I wouldn’t rule out him being fit and raring to go for Ulster.
“That would be the earliest and things really do need to fall into place for that to happen.
“That’s still maybe a little bit of a long shot. It may be touch and go.
“If he misses out on that, then he would definitely be fit and available for our games out in South Africa the following two weeks.”
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