All Blacks name 44-man squad for South Africa tour

All Blacks head coach Dave Rennie has named a 44-man squad for a demanding seven-week tour of South Africa, featuring three uncapped players and the return of several key veterans. The squad, announced on July 27, 2026, will embark on what Rennie described as "the toughest tour in rugby," featuring eight matches including a four-Test series against the world champion Springboks.

All 34 players from the squad that completed an unbeaten Nations Championship campaign earlier in July have been retained. They are joined by ten additional players, introducing three potential debutants: Hurricanes prop Siale Lauaki, Moana Pasifika loose forward Semisi Tupou Taeiloa, and Chiefs utility back Josh Jacomb. The reinforcements also include seven returning All Blacks: prop Ollie Norris, hooker George Bell, lock Fabian Holland, flanker Ethan Blackadder, midfielder Timoci Tavatavanawai, and outside backs Rieko Ioane and Emoni Narawa.

Regular captain Scott Barrett remains unavailable due to injury, meaning Ardie Savea will continue to lead the side. However, Savea has been granted an extended break and will miss the tour's opening three non-Test matches against South African franchises. He will...