All Blacks release 16 players to National Provincial Championship
Luke Jacobson is among the released players
©Steve Haag
Sixteen members of the All Blacks squad have been released to play in this weekend’s National Provincial Championship ahead of next week’s Rugby Championship clash against South Africa at Eden Park.
A highlight of the news is the return of Caleb Clarke, who has recovered from a high ankle injury and will represent Auckland in their match against Wellington at Porirua Park.
Clarke had been sidelined since suffering the injury during training ahead of the second Test against France in July but now looks to regain form through NPC action.
Other All Blacks available for selection include Emoni Narawa, Leroy Carter, and Tevita Mafileo for Bay of Plenty's game against North Harbour.
For Canterbury, hooker Brodie McAlister rejoins the squad for their game versus Manawatu, while Josh Lord plays for Taranaki against Counties Manukau. Timoci Tavatavanawai and George Bower will bolster Tasman and Otago respectively on Saturday.
Wellington also gains strength with four squad members – Kyle Preston, Ruben Love, Peter Lakai, and Asafo Aumua – available for Sunday’s match.
Meanwhile, Ranfurly Shield holders Waikato welcome back Anton Lienert-Brown, Luke Jacobson, Samipeni Finau, and Ollie Norris for their match against Southland, reinforcing their campaign.
