Mo'unga returns to All Blacks squad and backs rival Love to hold No.10 jersey

Richie Mo’unga is back in an All Blacks squad for the first time since the 2023 Rugby World Cup final, named in New Zealand’s 23-man group to face the British & Irish Lions at Ellis Park after centre Billy Proctor suffered a tour-ending shoulder blade injury.

The Crusaders and Canterbury first-five, who spent three seasons in Japan with Toshiba Brave Lupus, brings 56 Test caps back into a squad where Hurricanes playmaker Ruben Love has started all four Tests under head coach Dave Rennie in 2026.

“It’s really special. It’s been a long time, but I’m just really grateful to be back in this environment, thankful to Rens and the coaches for giving me this opportunity and also having trust that I can do a job,” Mo’unga told reporters in Johannesburg.

Rather than positioning himself as a direct challenger for the starting berth, the 32-year-old framed his return in terms of service to the group. “Coming back into this team, it’s not about trying to get back into the 10 jersey; it’s really about nailing my role at this moment — getting to grips with how the team plays, the new environment, meeting coaches for the first time, and giving a helping hand where I can.”

Mo’unga was generous in his assessment of the man currently wearing the jersey he made his own across the previous decade. “I’ve been so impressed with how he’s played this season, for the Hurricanes and All Blacks,” he said of Love.

Yet the veteran was clear that his competitive instincts remain intact. “I’m competitive; I want to be the best. I know that there’s a process to that, and at this point in time, the process looks a bit different around preparing someone else to be the best.” He added that a midweek appearance against the Lions on Tuesday would give him his own chance to stake a claim.

“This game was always coming for me. There was always going to be a return. I wasn’t sure when it was, but mentally I’ve prepared for my return in the black jersey, and I’m ready. It’s important you play the game, not the occasion, and just go out and be free.”

Mo’unga’s return adds an experienced voice to a squad navigating one of rugby’s most high-profile touring series, and his willingness to subordinate personal ambition to team need may prove as valuable as anything he contributes on the field.