The All Blacks have announced their 36-man squad for the upcoming Rugby Championship, with loose forward Simon Parker receiving his maiden national call-up. The 25-year-old flanker from the Chiefs and Northland was the only new face named in the main squad by head coach Scott Robertson.
Injury reshuffles open doors
With several frontline players sidelined, including Cam Roigard, Luke Jacobson, Tyrel Lomax and Caleb Clarke, the selectors made multiple adjustments. Tamaiti Williams and Wallace Sititi returned from injury, while Kyle Preston, Tevita Mafileo and Leroy Carter were included as cover.
Preston could get his debut sooner than expected, given Roigard and Hotham are both out. Though Finlay Christie, with 23 caps, adds experience at scrumhalf, Preston remains in the mix for the Argentina leg.
Parker praised for physical edge
Robertson lauded Parker’s form and character, saying, “He’s a big man, physical, and accurate. He’s been incredibly consistent all year and earned this spot.”
Parker’s rise is notable, particularly over players like Christian Lio-Willie, who impressed in July against France but misses out this time. Parker’s height and physicality were a key factors, especially as the All Blacks lean on power in the back row.
Squad depth tested in key positions
The loose forward group is stacked with Ardie Savea, Du’Plessis Kirifi, Peter Lakai, Sititi, Samipeni Finau and Luke Jacobson. Yet the lock options remain slim, with only Barrett, Tuipulotu, Holland and Vaa’i available. Josh Lord comes in as cover, though Vaa’i may play at flanker if needed.
Versatile Carter, another new call-up, brings speed and flexibility. A former New Zealand Sevens standout, he can play across the backline and impressed recently while covering centre for Bay of Plenty.
Barrett brothers near return
Captain Scott Barrett is recovering from a calf issue and is expected to lead the side in the August 16 opener in Córdoba against Argentina. Fly-half Beauden Barrett is also tracking well after a hand injury and could return in the same match.
Tamaiti Williams may return for the second Test in Buenos Aires. Other injured players, including Perofeta and Aumua, are unavailable for the entire series.
Fixtures and outlook
The All Blacks begin their Rugby Championship campaign with two matches in Argentina before returning home to face South Africa and Australia. With the Pumas having lost 2-0 to a second-string England side, New Zealand will aim for a strong start.
Robertson expects close contests throughout the tournament, saying, “This is going to be one for the ages. Every side is loaded with experience and talent.”
Key omissions and comebacks
Leicester Fainga’anuku and Blues lock Sam Darry were not considered due to limited recent game time. Fainga’anuku, however, remains under watch after returning from a stint in France.
Veterans like Codie Taylor, Ardie Savea, and Beauden Barrett continue to anchor the squad, while emerging names like Lakai, Sititi, and Tavatavanawai are gaining prominence.
Discussion about this post