All Blacks make sensational call up ahead of Springbok series
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- Dave Rennie makes huge Richie Mo’unga admission ahead of Springboks opener - August 13, 2026
- Richie Mo’unga makes telling admission after sensational All Blacks recall - August 13, 2026
He’s back.
Richie Mo’unga has been handed a sensational All Blacks recall, with the experienced fly-half joining New Zealand’s squad for the remainder of Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry tour.
The 32-year-old has been called up as an injury replacement for Billy Proctor, who returned home after suffering a fractured shoulder blade in the All Blacks’ opening tour victory over the Stormers.
Mo’unga will now link up with Dave Rennie’s squad in South Africa ahead of the eagerly anticipated four-Test series against the Springboks.
The 56-cap playmaker has not represented New Zealand since the 2023 Rugby World Cup final, having subsequently spent three seasons in Japan with Toshiba Brave Lupus.
He returned to New Zealand this year and regained his eligibility for the All Blacks after taking the field for Canterbury in the NPC.
Mo’unga has quickly made his presence felt since returning to domestic rugby, including helping Canterbury secure the Ranfurly Shield with a 19-15 victory over Otago.
His arrival now creates a fascinating selection battle ahead of the Springboks series, with Damian McKenzie and Ruben Love among Rennie’s other options at fly-half.
Mo’unga was not included in the original 44-man squad for the Greatest Rivalry tour, but Proctor’s injury has now opened the door for his long-awaited return.
The All Blacks face the Bulls at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday before the Test series against South Africa gets underway at Ellis Park on August 22.
