Richie Mo’unga is heading to South Africa after being called up to the All Blacks squad for their Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series against the Springboks.
The 56-Test flyhalf is expected to fly out of Christchurch on Thursday after All Blacks coach Dave Rennie was given the green light to recall him as a replacement for injured centre Billy Proctor.
“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,” Rennie said.
MORE: Rennie sounds warning to SA rivals
Mo’unga has not played for the All Blacks since 2023 and only returned to New Zealand a couple of months ago after his stint in Japan.
He was initially ineligible for the national team until October after signing an 18-month contract with New Zealand Rugby, but the door remained open for an injury-enforced recall if an exemption was granted.
That opportunity has now arrived following Proctor’s tour-ending shoulder injury.
“We really feel for Billy. He has had a great season so this is frustrating for him. It is the harsh reality of our game,” said Rennie.
“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.”
PLUM: All Blacks can expose Bok defence
Mo’unga has already made his return to New Zealand rugby, playing two NPC matches for Canterbury and helping them win the Ranfurly Shield last week.
He now joins a star-studded group of flyhalves and playmakers in South Africa, alongside Ruben Love, Beauden Barrett, Damian McKenzie and Josh Jacomb.
Love is expected to start at No 10 against the Springboks in the first Test next weekend after impressing during the Nations Championship and producing a strong performance against the Sharks.
The All Blacks face the Bulls in Pretoria on Saturday before their first Test against the Springboks at Ellis Park on 22 August.
Photo: Paul Harding/Getty Images
The post Mo’unga back in black for Bok showdown appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Richie Mo’unga is heading to South Africa after being called up to the All Blacks squad for their Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series against the Springboks.
The post Mo’unga back in black for Bok showdown appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
