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Cape Town - Brodie
Retallick is refreshed and raring to go for the Chiefs' pivotal Super
Rugby clash against the Highlanders in Dunedin on Saturday.
The All Blacks lock was given the week off to recover after playing in all three Tests against Wales before backing up for the Chiefs against the Crusaders in Suva.
"It was just good to get away from rugby and clear the head," he said.
"Obviously after the June internationals and going to Fiji I was a bit knackered, so I appreciate the coaches giving me a break to freshen up."
The Chiefs aren't reading too much into the Highlanders' fatigue levels despite their recent return from a gruelling round-the-world trip, which included matches in South Africa and Argentina.
"We talked about it as a team and we can't afford to think like that, as we did the same and came home and played a great game - we are not thinking that will be a factor."
Retallick also believes the Chiefs have turned a corner after stringing together impressive wins against Wales, the Crusaders and the Reds.
"We have worked hard at getting the balance and skill set right at training, so we are now playing with the excitement and carefree nature we were earlier in the season."
Retallick also isn't reading too much into the Highlanders' five-match winning streak against the Chiefs.
"They had the better of us earlier in the season here in Hamilton, but we have talked about how we have grown as a team since then and what we are going to get right.
"It doesn't worry me - it's a new game and everyone goes there to win and only one can come out on top so hopefully it's the Chiefs."
