A desperate NSW has been boosted for Saturday's crucial Super 12 clash against the Hurricanes with linchpin flanker Phil Waugh set to return from injury.

Waugh went through a searching workout at training on Monday with his injured shoulder not feeling any ill effects from tackling, fitness and agility work.

Waratahs coach Ewen McKenzie said he was confident the Wallabies back-rower was right for an immediate return, which would force Lei Tomiki out of the starting XV.

Waugh suffered a pinched nerve in the loss to the Chiefs three weeks ago and Monday was his return to the training paddock.

"Phil had an extensive fitness test and got through that all right," McKenzie said.

"He did a bit of tackling. It was quite comprehensive so we're confident he'll be right."

It is a major filip for the Waratahs who sit seventh on 17 points, three out of the top four after a round eight bye.

Tomiki made an impressive starting debut at openside flanker in the last-start one-point loss to the Blues but may be dropped for the 22 all together.

McKenzie must decide whether having two ball-scavengers best suits his team in the late stages against the physical Wellington side.

He must also decide whether to keep five-eighth Shaun Berne in the hot seat, or give the diminutive Tim Donnelly, dropped to the bench for the Blues, another chance at No.10.

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