Richie Mo’unga set for All Blacks return against Lions
Richie Mo’unga will make his long-awaited return to the All Blacks when he starts at fly-half against the Lions on Tuesday night,
Richie Mo’unga, the brilliant playmaker, is set to return to the All Blacks' lineup for their upcoming match against the Lions. After moving to Japan following New Zealand's 12-11 loss to the Springboks in the 2023 World Cup final, Mo’unga's recent return to New Zealand has led to his recall. Coach Dave Rennie summoned him to South Africa after Billy Proctor's injury in the match against the Stormers.
Mo’unga's first appearance for the All Blacks since the World Cup final comes as he aims to secure a spot in the remaining Test matches. The Lions will face a thoroughly revamped team, with Patrick Tuipulotu leading the charge. The New Zealand squad boasts a wealth of experience, including Beauden Barrett at fullback, Rieko Ioane at center, and Ethan Blackadder and Wallace Sititi in the loose forwards.
The second row will be anchored by Sam Darry and Patrick Tuipulotu, while the front row features Pasilio Tosi, Samisoni Taukei’aho, and Siale Lauaki. Ofa Tu’ungafasi and Jamie Hannah, recent replacements for the injured Josh Lord and Ethan de Groot, will also feature on the bench.
Written by urgent.news from IOL's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
