All Blacks v Springboks: Ruben Love’s rise to No 10 after injuries and self
Ruben Love has been elevated to the All Blacks' starting No 10 position following a period of injury and personal doubt. His rise follows a successful Super Rugby season and a shift in the team's strategic direction under coach Dave Rennie.
Why it matters
Love's selection represents a pivotal change in the All Blacks' tactical setup for their high-stakes tour of South Africa.
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Ruben Love’s promotion to the All Blacks’ playmaking throne for this once-in-a-lifetime South African tour appears a rapid accession. Behind his assured on-field demeanour, though, lies a tale of patience and perseverance, of overcoming multiple injury setbacks and self-doubt.
The greatest rivalry tour marks Love’s second trip to South Africa with the All Blacks.
Two years ago he was firmly on the fringe; viewed as a future development prospect. His test debut, two months after that two-match African tour off the bench against Japan, was in his sole appearance for the All Blacks in 2024.
From Palmerston North to Wellington, Love was long regarded as a playmaking prodigy. Yet with the All Blacks , uncertainty prevailed about whether he would evolve into a first five-eighths or fullback.
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