The All Blacks are managing a mounting injury list with six days to go before the first Test against the Springboks, with prop Ollie Norris becoming the fourth player to head home after sustaining a knee injury during the tour. Norris joins midfielder Billy Proctor, winger Caleb Clarke and hooker George Bell in departing early, and will be sidelined for approximately six weeks. The All Blacks say a replacement for Norris will be confirmed in due course.
The more pressing concern is at scrumhalf, where both first-choice options are carrying injuries. Cam Roigard has a calf strain and must prove his fitness before the first Test, while back-up Cortez Ratima sustained a knee injury in Saturday's match against the Bulls at Loftus Versfeld. Canterbury scrumhalf Noah Hotham has been called into the squad as cover.
Winger Will Jordan remains a doubt with a back injury and has yet to play on tour, while Damian McKenzie is carrying a twisted ankle. Coach Scott Rennie said he expects all three — Roigard, Jordan and McKenzie — to be available for the first Test, but acknowledged McKenzie is the least certain of the trio. "Damian's the other one — we're probably less confident about Damian, but still think he's a good chance to play on the weekend," Rennie said.
Ardie Savea is fit but only arrived on Thursday after being granted time off ahead of the tour and has had no game time.
Richie Mo'unga has been called up to the touring squad but Rennie confirmed he will not be considered for the first Test, with Ruben Love set to wear the No 10 jersey. Mo'unga will have an opportunity for game time against the Lions. The All Blacks name their side on Thursday.