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New Zealand fly-half Stephen Donald is doubtful for next week's match against Italy after suffering a hamstring strain in the 14-10 second Test victory over France in Wellington.

Donald, who produced a patchy performance before he was replaced by Luke McAlister at Westpac Stadium, was rated as having only a 40 percent chance of playing in Christchurch next Saturday by assistant coach Steve Hansen.

McAlister would play at fly-half if Donald was ruled out, Hansen said.

Injured lock Ali Williams, who has a long-standing Achilles' injury, was progressing well and could also be in consideration for next week.

"It's not a hundy (100 percent) but he is making good progress," Hansen said.

"The medical staff are happy for him to work through this week and hopefully he'll get him some game time either starting or off the bench.

"(Scrum-half) Brendon Leonard is likely to be available. I'm very happy with that. His hamstring is looking good.

Hooker Andrew Hore, who suffered rib cartilage damage in the 27-22 loss to France last week in Dunedin, had also made some progress.

"We will see how he is travelling and if he is right then he will come in, if not we'll give him another week or so."

Reuters