Richie Mo’unga relishing All Blacks return against Lions at Ellis Park

Richie Mo’unga is set to return to the All Blacks against the Lions at Ellis Park on Tuesday, his first appearance for New Zealand since the 2023 World Cup final. The 56-cap fly-half will play at the same stadium where he watched the All Blacks defeat the Springboks on Saturday.

Hearing the New Zealand anthem before that match reinforced Mo’unga’s decision to resume his international career. The moment brought back his desire to contribute to the All Blacks’ history and measure himself against the strongest opposition.

Mo’unga’s wish to return developed during his time with Toshiba Brave Lupus in Japan. While watching the Six Nations early last year, he began to feel that remaining outside Test rugby could leave him with regrets. The contrast between club rugby in Japan and international matches in Europe also made him miss the environment of the All Blacks.

His three years away brought changes to the squad. Mo’unga has encountered several teammates for the first time during this tour, creating a different atmosphere from the one he knew before. He has nevertheless found a strong mood in the group, with established leaders helping younger players prepare to contribute.

The spell in Japan also broadened his experience beyond playing. Mo’unga had to guide teammates both as a player and as a coach, and said the period helped him develop personally as a father and husband. He has returned to New Zealand with greater appreciation for the opportunity to represent the All Blacks.

Mo’unga has also welcomed the competition with Ruben Love for the fly-half position. He has been impressed by Love’s performances for the Hurricanes and New Zealand, but sees his immediate task as reconnecting with the squad, learning the coaches’ methods and supporting the team. Tuesday will give him the chance to wear the All Blacks jersey again.