Richie Mo'unga recalled to All Blacks squad

Richie Mo’unga has been recalled to the All Blacks squad for the first time since the 2023 Rugby World Cup final, with the experienced fly-half replacing injured centre Billy Proctor on New Zealand’s South Africa tour.

The 32-year-old will join Dave Rennie’s squad in Johannesburg ahead of the four-Test series against the Springboks.

Richie Mo’unga Returns to All Blacks Squad

Mo’unga became eligible for New Zealand selection after returning from Japan and representing Canterbury in the NPC.

The 56-cap fly-half had not played for the All Blacks since starting the 2023 World Cup final defeat to South Africa. His move to Japan following that tournament had initially made him unavailable under New Zealand Rugby’s overseas selection policy.

Since returning home, Mo’unga has quickly made an impact for Canterbury, including helping the province reclaim the Ranfurly Shield.

Billy Proctor Injury Opens Door for Mo’unga

Mo’unga has been called up as the replacement for Proctor, who fractured his shoulder blade during the All Blacks’ 38-21 victory over the Stormers.

Proctor faces approximately 10 to 12 weeks on the sidelines and will return to New Zealand for rehabilitation.

Rennie described Mo’unga as the obvious replacement but stressed that the experienced playmaker must learn the team’s systems and earn his place in the side.

"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."

All Blacks Face Fly-Half Selection Battle

Mo’unga’s arrival adds another major option at first five-eighth ahead of the Springboks series, increasing competition within New Zealand’s playmaking ranks.

He will join the squad before the All Blacks face the Bulls at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria, their final franchise fixture before the Test series begins.

New Zealand face South Africa in the opening Test at Ellis Park on August 22.