Dave Rennie has confirmed that Richie Mo'unga starts at flyhalf for the fourth and final Test against the Springboks in Baltimore — his first appearance for the All Blacks since the 2023 World Cup Final. Rennie says the decision was made regardless of the series scoreline going into the match.
"We talked about it a couple of weeks ago. Regardless of the result in Soweto — whether we came here up 2-1 or down 1-2, we were going to start Richie," Rennie said.
Ruben Love, who started all six of New Zealand's Tests this year including the three matches in South Africa, makes way. Rennie was emphatic that the move reflects no loss of faith in the younger playmaker.
"Last week was probably the biggest Test the All Blacks have played since the World Cup Final. We trusted him to run the ship ahead of probably three more experienced No.10s. It highlights where we see him."
Beauden Barrett earns a bench spot for the first time in the series, providing genuine cover at both 10 and 15. Rennie acknowledged it has been a difficult period for Barrett, who sat out all six previous Tests this year, but praised his professionalism.
"He's been phenomenal. His contribution to the group has been excellent."
Kyle Preston covers halfback and Rieko Ioane provides midfield and outside back cover from the bench.
With the Rugby World Cup in Australia next year on the horizon, Rennie flagged the depth he is building across the playmaker positions, noting that Damian McKenzie and Barrett remain in the reckoning at flyhalf alongside Mo'unga and Love.