New Zealand's All Blacks are set to embark on a formidable tour of South Africa, with captain Ardie Savea strategically rested for the initial stages of the Rugby's Greatest Rivalry series. Savea, who has been skippering the side in the continued absence of lock Scott Barrett, will sit out the matches against the four South African United Rugby Championship (URC) teams. He is expected to rejoin the squad ahead of the first Test against the Springboks, scheduled for 22 August at Ellis Park in Johannesburg.
In Savea's absence, experienced hooker Codie Taylor has been appointed tour captain. This decision reflects All Blacks coach Dave Rennie's stated ambition to cultivate and assess leadership options within the squad, particularly given the gruelling nature of the upcoming schedule. The tour kicks off on 7 August against the Stormers in Cape Town, marking the beginning of an intense six-week period.
The expanded 44-man squad features three uncapped players, signalling a look towards future talent ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup. Prop Siale Lauaki, loose forward Semisi Tupou Ta'eiloa, and fly-half Josh Jacomb will all be hoping to make their international debuts. Additionally, second-row Fabian Holland makes a welcome return to the squad after a significant period on the sidelines due to injury, bolstering the All Blacks' options in the tight five.
Coach Rennie emphasised the unprecedented challenge posed by the tour, which includes eight matches over six weeks, culminating in a four-Test series against the reigning world champions. "With eight matches in six weeks, including a four-Test series against the Springboks, this would have to be the toughest tour in rugby," Rennie stated. He highlighted that every player would be crucial, whether on the field or in supporting roles, underscoring the collective effort required for such an arduous undertaking.
The decision to rest Savea early in the tour is a testament to the All Blacks' focus on player welfare and ensuring their key leaders are fresh for the most critical encounters. Rennie noted, "Ardie has carried a massive workload in the last couple of years and we think it is best for him to have an extended break so he can come back ready to lead us into the Test series." This strategic management aims to maximise Savea's impact during the high-stakes Test series against their fiercest rivals.
Following the two Tests on South African soil, the series will conclude with a clash in Baltimore, USA. This reciprocal touring agreement ensures these two rugby powerhouses will face each other every four years, promising continued high-quality international rugby. Notable absentees from the squad include prop Tamaiti Williams and versatile back Leicester Fainga’anuku, alongside the previously mentioned Scott Barrett. Rieko Ioane, however, makes a return to the squad after being omitted from the recent Nations Championship.