Kiwi rugby correspondent Liam Napier has revealed those expected to feature in Dave Rennie’s 44-man New Zealand squad for the highly anticipated tour to South Africa.
Head coach Rennie is set to announce his final group for the eight-match Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series on Monday, adding 10 players to the 34 already selected for the July international window.
Writing for the New Zealand Herald, Napier tips Hurricanes prop Siale Lauaki as a potential bolter, highlighting his size and ball-carrying, along with his switch to loosehead this season. He also expects Chiefs loosehead Ollie Norris to provide cover given Tamaiti Williams’ unavailability.
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At halfback, Napier backs Noah Hotham’s inclusion for his running threat, while tipping George Bell to return as back-up hooker. He expects Fabian Holland to be added as a sixth lock alongside Jamie Hannah continuing his development in Scott Barrett’s absence.
Napier says loose forward selection hinges on whether Rennie opts for a 6-4 or 7-3 forward-back split, and argues Highlanders breakout star Lucas Casey offers greater long-term upside than the more experienced Du’Plessis Kirifi.
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In the backs, Napier expects Rieko Ioane’s versatility across centre and wing to earn a recall, with Timoci Tavatavanawai offering a point of physical difference despite pace concerns.
With Caleb Tangitau and Leicester Fainga’anuku both facing injury doubts, Napier says the back-three options are limited, naming Emoni Narawa as the most likely selection provided he proves his fitness.
Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry tour fixtures
Friday, 7 August: vs Stormers, Cape Town Stadium, Cape Town
Tuesday, 11 August: vs Sharks, Kings Park, Durban
Saturday, 15 August: vs Vodacom Bulls, Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria
Saturday, 22 August: vs Springboks, Ellis Park, Johannesburg
Tuesday, 25 August: vs Lions, Ellis Park, Johannesburg
Saturday, 29 August: vs Springboks, Cape Town Stadium, Cape Town
Saturday, 5 September: vs Springboks, FNB Stadium, Johannesburg
Saturday 12 September: vs Springboks, M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore
Photo: Phil Walter/Getty Images
The post All Blacks for Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry named appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Kiwi rugby correspondent Liam Napier has revealed those expected to feature in Dave Rennie’s 44-man New Zealand squad for the highly anticipated tour to South Africa.
The post All Blacks for Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry named appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
