The All Blacks have gathered in Auckland ahead of a crucial Rugby Championship clash against South Africa at Eden Park this Saturday.
The team is arriving under a mix of optimism and concern, with several key players returning from injury, while others have been forced to withdraw due to fresh setbacks in recent weeks.
One of the most significant blows comes from Timoci Tavatavanawai, who fractured his radius during an NPC match for Tasman last weekend.
The winger is now facing surgery and an estimated 12-week recovery period, ruling him out for the remainder of the Rugby Championship.
Players Sitting Out Due to Injury
A number of All Blacks will not be assembling in Auckland due to injuries, including:
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Timoci Tavatavanawai – Fractured radius, surgery required, 12 weeks out
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Patrick Tuipulotu – Facial fracture, post-surgery, 4 weeks out
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Cam Roigard – Stress fracture in right foot, 3–4 weeks out
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Noah Hotham – High ankle sprain, surgery completed, 3–4 weeks out
These absences will test the squad’s depth and force coach Scott Robertson to adapt his plans for the Eden Park Test.
Players Cleared to Return
Some positive injury news has also arrived, with several key players now eligible to play in the NPC and expected to return for the second Test against South Africa:
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Caleb Clarke – Cleared to play NPC this week
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Luke Jacobson – Fit after recovering from a thigh injury
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Anton Lienert-Brown – Recovered from concussion
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Tyrel Lomax – Recovered from hand fracture
Meanwhile, George Bower has been released from the squad following Tamaiti Williams’ return, and Cortez Ratima remains under assessment for a rib fracture sustained against Argentina.
Injury Cover and Training Additions
The All Blacks are keeping several players as injury cover in the squad, including Tevita Mafileo, Josh Lord, Finlay Christie, Kyle Preston, and Leroy Carter.
Training additions for the week feature Sam Darry (lock) and Xavier Roe (halfback), giving Robertson additional options for selection.
All Blacks Look to Bounce Back at Eden Park
After a narrow 29-23 defeat to Argentina and a four-match losing streak against South Africa, the All Blacks are determined to reclaim their dominance at Eden Park.
The iconic venue has long been a fortress for New Zealand, with the team remaining unbeaten there for 30 years, and Robertson will be counting on the venue’s legendary atmosphere to inspire his side.
Kick-off is scheduled for 09:05 SA time, with both teams ready to battle it out in what promises to be a tense and thrilling encounter.
