All Blacks coach Dave Rennie says flyhalf Ruben Love’s omission from the team for Saturday’s series decider against the Springboks is no reflection of his form.
Rennie says the call was made “a couple of weeks ago” to give Mo’unga, who joined the squad as an injury replacement, a start in the fourth and final Test at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore.
“Regardless of the result at Soweto – whether we were up 2-1 or down 2-1 – we were going to start Richie,” Rennie said.
“He’s been in the environment for a while, he’s got a clear understanding of the game we want to play. I’m keen to give him that opportunity.”
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Rennie was clear that Love’s axing had nothing to do with his performance at FNB Stadium.
“Ruben’s gone really well, he’s played the first six Tests of the year,” Rennie said.
“But when I spoke to him, I stressed the fact that last week was the biggest Test the All Blacks have played since the World Cup final. We trusted him to run the ship ahead of three more experienced 10s.
“That highlights where we see him. But we’re keen to give Richie a crack and he’s prepared really well this week.”
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With Mo’unga, Beauden Barrett and Damian McKenzie all in the frame at flyhalf, Rennie says the competition is only helping Love’s development, rather than hindering it.
“Beauden’s not out of the reckoning from a 10 point of view, and Damian plays 10, so between those guys we feel like we have depth at 10 and 15,” Rennie said.
“There’s no doubt, Richie’s come in and been excellent. If you ask Ruben about the help he’s got, Beauden’s been great for him, as have Damian and Richie.
“For us to win, we need everyone going well. While they’re competing against each other, they’re also helping each other grow.
“Richie’s got a lot of experience. Ruben’s been really smart, he’s got beside a lot of those guys, and talked a lot of footy. It’s really good for our group.”
Photo: Siphiwe Sibeko/Reuters
The post Rennie backs Love despite axing appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
All Blacks coach Dave Rennie says flyhalf Ruben Love’s omission from the team for Saturday’s series decider against the Springboks is no reflection of his form.
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