Timoci Tavatavanawai remains in All Blacks plans despite limited game time
Friday 9 October 2026 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated In this story All Blacks, Highlanders, Dave Rennie, Timoci Tavatavanawai
Highlanders player Timoci Tavatavanawai remains in Dave Rennie's All Blacks selection plans. Although he featured in three games during the South Africa tour, he has only earned two international caps since 2025.
Key facts
3 facts
- Timoci Tavatavanawai has earned two international caps in 2025
- Tavatavanawai recorded 81 defenders beaten in Super Rugby Pacific
- The first Bledisloe Cup test will be held at Eden Park in Auckland
The full story
1 min read · 2 outlets
All Blacks coach Dave Rennie has confirmed that Timoci Tavatavanawai remains part of the team's long term plans. Although Tavatavanawai has not played a test match under Rennie, he was included in the recent tour to South Africa where he appeared in three games.
Tavatavanawai, who plays for the Highlanders, topped the Super Rugby Pacific charts by beating 81 defenders. While the player has expressed interest in moving to flanker, Rennie views him primarily as a number 12. Rennie noted that fitness and work rate remain a continued focus for the player.
The coach suggested Tavatavanawai might feature in the upcoming week or during the end of year tour. The player recently demonstrated versatility by playing centre for Tasman during an NPC victory over Waikato.
The All Blacks have also omitted lock Fabian Holland from the squad for the first Bledisloe Cup test against the Wallabies. Rennie stated that the coaching staff wants to see more from the Highlanders player before selecting him again.
Where reports differ
- One report identifies Tavatavanawai as a player for the Highlanders, while the other does not explicitly state his club
Compiled from reports by RNZ and Otago Daily Times.
