Dave Rennie's 'point of difference' verdict on All Blacks back-row selections and Du'Plessis Kirifi snub
All Blacks head coach Dave Rennie has explained his squad selection for the upcoming tour of South Africa, noting that players like Du'Plessis Kirifi were omitted due to depth in the openside flanker position. Rennie emphasized that new additions like Ethan Blackadder were chosen to provide a specific 'point of difference' for the team.
Why it matters
Squad selection decisions in high-profile international rugby significantly impact team performance and fan expectations during major series.
Du'Plessis Kirifi and an inset of All Blacks head coach Dave Rennie.
Dave Rennie has revealed why Du’Plessis Kirifi has been overlooked for the touring squad to South Africa for the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series.
The Hurricanes co-captain was a regular feature for Scott Robertson last year but hasn’t got a look-in under the new head coach despite his strong performances en route to winning Super Rugby Pacific.
Instead, Rennie has stuck with the likes of Ardie Savea, Anton Segner, Luke Jacobson, Wallace Sititi, Simon Park and Peter Lakai as his loose forwards, who did service during the Nations Championship while adding Crusaders star Ethan Blackadder and calling up the uncapped Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa.
While the head coach admits that Kirifi is a ‘good player’ and performed well for the ‘Canes in 2026, he explained that there is sufficient cover for the openside flanker position.
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