Overview
- The All Blacks completed a 3-0 provincial build-up with a 50-19 win over the Bulls on Saturday, a result that tested combinations and sharpened competition for Test places.
- Anton Segner was named man of the match in Pretoria after a high-workload performance that has put him and other fringe forwards under serious consideration by coach Dave Rennie.
- New Zealand face injury uncertainty in the backs with Damian McKenzie’s ankle described as doubtful while Cam Roigard and Will Jordan are expected to be available for the opening Test.
- Richie Mo’unga was added to the touring squad as a late replacement but Rennie confirmed he is not in line for the first Test and is likely to play in the midweek Lions match instead.
- Separately, the Wallabies completed a 2-0 series sweep of Japan with Taniela Tupou scoring two tries and reports say he may stay for the upcoming Argentina and South Africa tours subject to club release rules.