Rennie positive on injured backs ahead of Springboks Test
All Blacks coach Dave Rennie has given a cautiously optimistic update on the fitness of Cam Roigard and Will Jordan ahead of the first Test against the Springboks. Neither player has featured on the 'Greatest Rivalry' tour so far, with Roigard sidelined by a tight calf and Jordan managing a back niggle; Roigard was a late withdrawal before the team's victory over the Sharks in Durban.
Speaking after the All Blacks' 50-19 win over the Bulls in Pretoria, Rennie said both players had got through some training. "Both Will and Cam got through a bit of training yesterday," he said. "We're pretty confident they're going to be right for next week… [but] we want them to have a full week of training. They're certainly ticking enough boxes."
The same confidence does not extend to Damian McKenzie, who sprained an ankle against the Sharks. Rennie said McKenzie's recovery was improving but that he was "less confident" about the playmaker's availability. "We're probably less confident about Damian but still think he is a good chance to play… the expectation is that all three will be available," Rennie added.
Selection picture takes shape
Should McKenzie be ruled out, the All Blacks have options. Beauden Barrett, who started at fullback against the Bulls, could move into the playmaking role, or Will Jordan could shift from the right wing. Josh Moorby, who impressed with two tries on the left wing in Pretoria, is another possibility, particularly with Caleb Clarke having left the match with injury. Rieko Ioane also put in an energetic performance and remains an option for the No. 11 jersey.
Ruben Love looks set to wear the No. 10 jersey, with Jordie Barrett and Quinn Tupaea all but locked in as the starting midfielders. Among the forwards, Anton Segner and Peter Lakai are pressing for starting spots, while Ardie Savea is expected to return as one of the starting loose forwards. Richie Mo'unga has arrived as an injury replacement for centre Billy Proctor but will not play in the first Test; he could feature against the Lions later in the series.
The New Zealand Herald reports that Damian McKenzie has recovered from injury to take his place in the backfield, and that Fabian Holland has forced his way into the starting team for the opening test. The report also notes that the first Test, part of the Rugby's Greatest Rivalry series, is scheduled for 3am Sunday New Zealand time.
Taylor leads in Pretoria, team showing signs but lacking edge
All Blacks hooker Codie Taylor captained the team for the first time in the Bulls match, playing only the first half as planned. He praised the forward pack's progress after the win. Rennie, meanwhile, was critical of Leroy Karter for not diving earlier when scoring a try, and he acknowledged improvements in set processing and discipline but pointed to a lack of clinical edge in the performance.
The victory over the Bulls in Pretoria completes the All Blacks' warm-up before the opening Test of the South Africa series. Roigard, described as the All Blacks' best halfback, and Jordan, New Zealand's record-breaking Test try scorer, are expected to be automatic selections once the backline is confirmed for Ellis Park.