Dave Rennie Explains Surprise Ruben Love Call Before Springboks Clash

• Ruben Love has been dropped to the bench for the All Blacks’ Baltimore decider despite starting the first 3 Tests
• Dave Rennie has explained why Richie Mo’unga was given the No.10 jersey for the final clash
• The All Blacks coach has made it clear that Love’s selection setback does not change how highly he rates him

All Blacks coach Dave Rennie has backed Ruben Love despite dropping the flyhalf from the starting XV for Saturday’s fourth Test against the Springboks in Baltimore. Richie Mo’unga will start at flyhalf at M&T Bank Stadium after returning to the All Blacks squad as an injury replacement. The decision comes after Love started the opening 3 Tests of the series.

According to SA Rugby Magazine, Rennie said the decision to start Mo’unga had been made before the Springboks took a 2-1 series lead.

“Regardless of the result at Soweto – whether we were up 2-1 or down 2-1 – we were going to start Richie,” Rennie said.

“He’s been in the environment for a while, he’s got a clear understanding of the game we want to play. I’m keen to give him that opportunity.”

Dave Rennie backs Love after 3 Tests

Rennie was also adamant that Love’s omission was not a punishment for his performance in Johannesburg.

“Ruben’s gone really well, he’s played the first six Tests of the year,” he said.

The coach also pointed to the responsibility placed on Love earlier in the series.

“When I spoke to him, I stressed the fact that last week was the biggest Test the All Blacks have played since the World Cup final,” Rennie said.

“We trusted him to run the ship ahead of three more experienced 10s.”

Love was yellow-carded during the Springboks’ 29-24 victory in Soweto, while the All Blacks also conceded 12 penalties.

Richie Mo’unga gets Baltimore opportunity

Mo’unga’s return gives the All Blacks a highly experienced option at flyhalf. He last played for New Zealand in the 2023 Rugby World Cup final against South Africa before returning to the squad this year.

Rennie said the competition among Mo’unga, Beauden Barrett, Damian McKenzie and Love could benefit the group.

“There’s no doubt, Richie’s come in and been excellent,” he said. “For us to win, we need everyone going well.”

With South Africa leading the series 2-1, New Zealand must win in Baltimore on Saturday, 12 September, to force a 2-2 finish.

The decision therefore gives Mo’unga a major opportunity while leaving Love with a clear indication that he remains part of Rennie’s plans.

Ardie Savea injury adds to All Blacks selection pressure

Briefly News previously reported that former Springbok Schalk Burger compared the All Blacks’ loss of Ardie Savea to South Africa being without Siya Kolisi.

Savea suffered a dislocated shoulder during New Zealand’s 29-24 defeat at FNB Stadium on 5 September and will miss the Baltimore decider on 12 September. Burger said the All Blacks would lose both leadership and big-game influence without him.

The injury adds to New Zealand’s selection challenges, with Quinn Tupaea and Luke Jacobson also ruled out following the Johannesburg Test.

Source: Briefly News