Richie Mo’unga's availability uncertain for All Blacks Nations Championship tests
Thursday 15 October 2026 · 3 outlets · 4 reports · updated In this story All Blacks, Wallabies, Dave Rennie, Ruben Love, Richie Mo'unga
All Blacks coach Dave Rennie says Richie Mo’unga is in doubt for the upcoming Nations Championship tests due to a calf tear. The 32-year-old playmaker has travelled to Sydney with the squad, though a final decision on his participation is expected to be made late.
Key facts
5 facts
- Richie Mo’unga suffered a calf tear during training last week
- The injury recovery period is estimated at six to eight weeks
- Damian McKenzie has transitioned from fullback to first five-eighths
- The All Blacks play four tests in November against Scotland, Wales, England, and a TBD opponent
- The All Blacks defeated the Wallabies 50-19 at Eden Park last week
The full story
1 min read · 3 outlets
All Blacks coach Dave Rennie has stated that Richie Mo’unga is in serious doubt for the upcoming Nations Championship tests in the northern hemisphere. The 32-year-old playmaker suffered a calf tear during training last week and is currently receiving medical treatment in Sydney.
The injury is estimated to require six to eight weeks of recovery. Rennie noted that even if Mo’unga returns in five weeks, he would likely miss the first few games of the tour.
Due to the uncertainty, Damian McKenzie has been retained at first five-eighths following a strong performance in a 50-19 victory over the Wallabies. The coaching staff considered handing Josh Jacomb a test debut in Sydney but opted for consistency instead.
If Mo’unga is unavailable, the All Blacks will rely on McKenzie, Beauden Barrett, and Jacomb to cover the position. Rennie indicated the team may not select an additional specialist first five-eighth for the tour.
How it developed
- Fri 16 Oct, 9:45amTimoci Tavatavanawai has been named on the bench for the upcoming match in Sydney.
Compiled from reports by NZ Herald, The Post and Stuff.
How they headlined it
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NZ Herald
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The Post
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Stuff
Dave Rennie provides an update on injured pivot Richie Mo'unga (opens in new tab)
