Rugby World Cup 2019: Coach Steve Hansen confirms 'no issue' with Kieran Read

Breathe easy, All Blacks fans.

Coach Steve Hansen has confirmed there's "no issue" with captain Kieran Read.

Read was conspicuous by his absence at Tuesday's training session, resulting in speculation over his fitness for Saturday's World Cup semi-final clash with England.

Hansen admitted Read had experienced some tightness in his calf after the win over Ireland and - as a precautionary measure due to the wet conditions in Tokyo - they'd decided to keep him indoors instead.

"You didn't see him training because he was in the gym on the bike," said Hansen.

"He got a tight calf after the [Ireland] game the other day, so we just weren't prepared to put him out on a wet track today."

Hansen added that Read would "100 percent" be available to play against England.

The rain is expected to remain in the Japanese capital for the next couple of days then clear up for the weekend, although some light drizzle has been forecast around kick-off time.

Coming off a physically demanding contest with Ireland after a lengthy break afforded by the Italy cancellation, Hansen stressed this week would be about managing player energy levels.

Rugby World Cup 2019: Coach Steve Hansen confirms 'no issue' with Kieran Read

"You don't get performances like both England and we had against respective oppositions without emptying your tank.

"It's just about making sure you're smart during the week, rebuild and get clarity about your game, deal with the stuff you have to deal with, and then arrive on Saturday really humming."

In genuine injury news, forward Matt Todd is making good progress with his troublesome shoulder.

While there's no chance he'll feature this weekend, Hansen said the Crusaders loose forward should be right if the All Blacks are "lucky enough to play another game next week".

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