Richie Mo'unga will start at fly-half for the All Blacks in Saturday's series decider against the Springboks, marking his first Test appearance since the 2023 Rugby World Cup final.
The playmaker, who has spent the past three seasons in Japan, replaces Ruben Love in one of several changes made by coach Dave Rennie for the final encounter in Rugby's Greatest Rivalry series. Love had started all six previous internationals under Rennie but does not feature in the matchday 23, with Beauden Barrett named on the bench.
Rennie emphasised that Love's omission reflected workload management rather than any dip in form. Former All Blacks head coach Sir Steve Hansen supported the decision, suggesting the 25-year-old needed respite after a demanding run of fixtures. Hansen described Mo'unga as one of the best fly-halves in world rugby, adding that the selection gave Love an opportunity to reflect on his performances whilst allowing Rennie to assess Barrett at Test level against elite opposition.
Wholesale changes for decider
Mo'unga's return forms part of a broader reshuffle, with only five players—Damian McKenzie, Will Jordan, Jordie Barrett, Cam Roigard and Sam Darry—retaining their positions from the previous weekend. Ethan De Groot and Codie Taylor return to the starting XV, whilst Fletcher Newell and Tyrel Lomax have swapped places in the front row.
Hansen characterised the changes as a deliberate strategy to develop depth against the strongest opposition. The approach carries risk in a series decider but reflects Rennie's willingness to test combinations under pressure.
The match represents a significant moment for Mo'unga, whose last Test ended in defeat to the Springboks in Paris. His reintegration into the All Blacks system after three seasons abroad will be scrutinised closely, particularly given the tactical demands of facing South Africa's defensive structure. For Love, the enforced break may prove beneficial in a season that has already demanded considerable mental and physical output.