Rennie eyes Mo’unga Lions return after All Blacks’ 50-29 win

Richie Mo’unga is in line to return for New Zealand against the Lions on 25 August, after All Blacks coach Dave Rennie indicated that the fly-half should feature in the tour match. The possibility emerged after New Zealand defeated the Bulls 50-29 on Saturday night.

Rennie made clear that Mo’unga will not be selected for the first Test. The 32-year-old is instead being considered for game time against the Lions, giving him a route back into the All Blacks after a prolonged absence from international rugby.

The coach described Mo’unga as highly enthusiastic about his return. The fly-half has already spent time studying New Zealand’s systems, while the coming period will focus on bringing him fully up to speed with the team’s approach.

Mo’unga has not played for the All Blacks since the 2023 World Cup final, when New Zealand lost to South Africa. He then spent the next three seasons playing in Japan before returning to New Zealand around two months ago.

His eligibility was restored after he played for Canterbury against Auckland in the NPC on 1 August. That appearance provided his first competitive action in New Zealand since his return and opened the way for his selection by the All Blacks.

Mo’unga was added to the squad after centre Billy Proctor withdrew because of injury. The former 56-Test international now has the chance to resume his New Zealand career in the Lions tour, although his immediate target is a match appearance rather than a place in the opening Test.