All Blacks Shed Light on Injured Stars Ahead of Springboks Test

• The All Blacks are carefully managing several players as the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry tour enters a decisive stage
• Dave Rennie has revealed more about the fitness of key New Zealand stars with the Springboks Test now firmly in sight
• The latest injury developments could have an important bearing on the All Blacks’ selection when the two rivals meet

All Blacks coach Dave Rennie has given a clearer picture of his injury situation ahead of the Springboks Test on Saturday, 22 August 2026. Damian McKenzie will miss Saturday’s clash against the Vodacom Bulls after twisting his ankle during New Zealand’s 54-0 win over the Sharks on Tuesday, 11 August.

SA Rugby Magazine reports that Rennie expects the versatile back to recover in time for the Springboks.

“Even with Damian injuring an ankle … we’re expecting him to be OK for the Test,” Rennie said.

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Will Jordan remains unavailable after a back problem ruled him out of the Sharks match. The winger had been expected to feature on the tour but has yet to regain full fitness.

Rennie said Jordan is improving, although the All Blacks are not prepared to rush his return.

“He’s definitely better, so we’re reasonably confident,” the coach said.

Rennie offers encouraging fitness update

Will Jordan is showing signs of improvement after his back problem delayed his return to action. Rennie said the winger is “definitely better”, leaving the All Blacks confident about his Test prospects.

Cam Roigard is also being carefully managed after experiencing discomfort. The All Blacks are remaining hopeful that the scrumhalf will be fit for the opening Test against the Springboks.

Rennie said the team was confident Roigard would recover in time, despite the setback affecting his planned involvement during the tour.

Meanwhile, Richie Mo’unga’s return to the squad has strengthened New Zealand’s backline options. Rennie noted that the experienced flyhalf could also provide valuable cover at fullback as the All Blacks manage their injury concerns.

Springboks Test looms

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With several players being rested or recovering, New Zealand have made changes for the Bulls match. Rennie said the alterations were largely based on “niggles and injuries”.

For the All Blacks, the immediate focus is Loftus Versfeld on Saturday. But the bigger question will be who is fit when the Springboks arrive on 22 August.

Dave Rennie raises fresh concerns before Springboks Tests

Briefly News previously reported that Dave Rennie questioned how stoppages are being managed during matches in South Africa. The All Blacks coach suggested that some delays could be tactical, while also pointing to lengthy lineout preparations as an issue.

Rennie’s comments have added another layer to an already intense Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry tour.

Source: Briefly News