All Blacks vs South Africa: Dave Rennie’s message to Ruben Love as Richie Mo’unga picked for tour finale
All Blacks coach Dave Rennie has selected Richie Mo’unga to start at fly-half for the tour finale against South Africa, replacing Ruben Love. Despite the change, Rennie emphasized that the decision is based on rotation and tactical preference rather than a lack of confidence in Love.
Why it matters
The selection highlights the ongoing strategic adjustments in international rugby as teams prepare for future tournaments and manage player availability.
All Blacks coach Dave Rennie has affirmed his belief in Ruben Love, despite dropping his No 10 for Sunday’s tour finale against the Springboks in Baltimore.
Despite last weekend’s 29-24 defeat to South Africa in Soweto, the All Blacks have arrived in the United States with the series alive at 2-1 down, and a draw still on the table.
Despite starting every test of the Rennie era, Love will sit out on Sunday morning, with Richie Mo’unga starting and Beauden Barrett covering on the bench.
Having not worn the black jersey in a test since the 2023 World Cup final, lining up against the Springboks at M&T Stadium is a huge opportunity for Mo’unga. The 32-year-old’s availability has been a sticking point for two All Blacks coaches.
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