Codie Taylor welcomes Ardie Savea back for Bulls match

Codie Taylor has welcomed the return of All Blacks captain Ardie Savea as the squad prepares to face the Vodacom Bulls at Loftus. Taylor, who is recovering from a calf injury, will lead New Zealand in the third match of the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry tour on Saturday.

Savea joins the group after missing the beginning of the seven-match tour of South Africa. His absence was intended to allow for recuperation ahead of the four upcoming Test matches against the Springboks. Taylor noted that Savea holds significant mana within the team and expressed confidence that the leader is eager to return to the field.

The New Zealand side enters the Pretoria fixture following victories over the Stormers and the Sharks. Taylor described the tour matches as opportunities to gain match fitness and experience the style of South African rugby. He specifically referenced the recent 54-0 win against the Sharks at Kings Park, noting that the team played well once they found their rhythm in the rain.

Looking ahead to the Bulls, Taylor expects a high level of physicality. He highlighted the strength of the South African set-piece and their reliance on a strong kicking game. The Bulls bolstered their forward options on Friday by adding Johan Grobbelaar and Elrigh Louw to their bench.

Taylor warned that the team must be prepared for a demanding scrum and an intense aerial battle. While the All Blacks are building momentum through these club games, Taylor acknowledged that the Springboks will present a much higher level of difficulty when the Test series begins.