New Zealand star Tim Brown has recovered from a fractured shoulder and will rejoin the squad in South Africa before the start of World Cup.

The 29-year-old midfielder suffered the injury in a recent friendly with Australia and had to undergo surgery, leaving his hopes of participation in the finals hanging in the balance.

He has now been passed fit to travel to the team’s training camp where he’ll continue his rehabilitation, although he is a doubt for their opener against Slovakia on June 15.

However, it’s a timely boost that he’s in contention to play in the group stages for the All Whites, who are making only their second appearance in the finals.