The Springboks’ chances of becoming the first team to beat New Zealand at Eden Park since 1994 have been boosted by news that All Blacks negotiations to recall playmaker Richie Mo’unga have stalled.
Coach Scott Robertson’s plans to restore the All Blacks to the top of the world rankings have been dented by news that Mo’unga, his former Crusaders star, will not be returning from Japan this year. The 30-year-old, who has played 56 Tests, reportedly remains committed to his three-year contract with Japanese club Toshiba Brave Lupus, ruling him out of All Blacks duty until at least June of 2026.
Mo’unga was expected to be a central figure in Robertson’s mission to restore the Kiwis to dominant form after a turbulent 2024 campaign, where they lost four of 14 matches, including being swept by the Boks in two Tests.
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According to 1News, discussions involving Mo’unga’s agents, New Zealand Rugby and Toshiba have stalled, leaving Robertson without his star playmaker. Mo’unga has faced the Boks nine times, winning four and drawing one Test.
Robertson’s first season as head coach saw him oscillate between flyhalf options Damian McKenzie and Beauden Barrett. With Mo’unga’s proven track record—both for the All Blacks and during his glittering stint at the Crusaders under Robertson—the prospect of his early return had offered hope of bolstering the team’s pivot options.
Robertson’s interest in Mo’unga’s return signalled a roadblock to one-Test All Blacks flyhalf Harry Plummer who opted to sign for Top 14 club Clermont.
Reigning Rugby Championship winners and two-time defending world champions, the Boks are scheduled for two Tests in New Zealand this year – in Auckland on 6 September and Wellington one week later. The All Blacks have not been beaten at Eden Park since 1994.
Photo: Fiona Goodall/Getty Images
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