The All Blacks have assembled in Auckland ahead of Saturday’s pivotal Rugby Championship against South Africa at Eden Park.
While the team has been bolstered by several key returns from injury, they’ve also confirmed multiple player withdrawals due to injuries sustained in recent weeks.
One of the most significant setbacks is Timoci Tavatavanawai, who will miss the rest of the Rugby Championship after suffering a fractured radius during an NPC match for Tasman this pst weekend.
He is set to undergo surgery, with an estimated 12-week recovery period.
Injured Players Not Assembling in Auckland
- Timoci Tavatavanawai – Fractured radius (surgery required), 12 weeks out
- Patrick Tuipulotu – Facial fracture (post-surgery), 4 weeks out
- Cam Roigard – Stress fracture in right foot, 3–4 weeks out
- Noah Hotham – High ankle sprain (surgery completed), 3–4 weeks out
Returnees & Recoveries
- Caleb Clarke – Cleared to play NPC this week; expected to return for second South Africa Test
- Luke Jacobson – Also NPC-eligible after recovering from a thigh injury; expected back for second SA Test
- Anton Lienert-Brown – Recovered from concussion
- Tyrel Lomax – Recovered from hand fracture
Squad news
- George Bower – Released from squad after Tamaiti Williams returned from injury
- Cortez Ratima – Still being assessed for rib fracture sustained vs Argentina
- Injury cover players remaining with squad:
- Tevita Mafileo
- Josh Lord
- Finlay Christie
- Kyle Preston
- Leroy Carter
- Training additions for the week:
- Sam Darry (lock)
- Xavier Roe (halfback)
The All Blacks head into the Eden Park Test hoping to bounce back after a 29-23 defeat to Argentina and looking to snap a four-match losing streak to South Africa.
With several injury concerns and key players still out, coach Scott Robertson will need to rely on depth, discipline, and the legendary fortress of Eden Park – where the All Blacks have not lost in 30 years.
Kick-off is set for 09:05 (SA time).
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