Richie Mo’unga's Return Sparks Selection Dilemma for All Blacks Against Springboks
Fly half Richie Mo’unga has been recalled to the New Zealand squad, presenting head coach Dave Rennie with a significant selection dilemma ahead of the four-Test series against South Africa. Mo’unga has not featured for the All Blacks since he started the 2023 Rugby World Cup final, where they suffered a defeat to the Springboks. Following that match, he moved to Japan, rendering him ineligible for international selection. However, after returning to New Zealand with Canterbury, he has been summoned to the touring squad due to centre Billy Proctor being ruled out with a shoulder injury. The 32-year-old will join Rennie’s group prior to their match against the Bulls at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria this weekend, before facing the world champions in the first of four Tests in Johannesburg next Saturday. Rennie expressed concern for Proctor, stating, "We really feel for Billy. He has had a great season, so this is frustrating for him. We wish him all the best with his recovery and hope to see him fit and well in time for the end of year tour selection." He added, "Richie is the obvious choice as a replacement. His job now is to get in and learn our systems, get his head around the detail and earn the right to play." Mo’unga’s return was expected for the Nations Championship in November but comes earlier than anticipated, enhancing Rennie’s options. Ruben Love has emerged as New Zealand's preferred fly half with three solid performances in the July Tests and is likely to start at Ellis Park. Veteran Beauden Barrett and versatile Damian McKenzie also remain alternatives, but Mo’unga, who previously held the position, is a high-caliber option.
Source: The Independent Sport - 2026-08-13