The All Blacks are grappling with a heavy blow as their captain, Ardie Savea, gears up for surgery due to a shoulder injury sustained in the explosive face-off with the Springboks. While clashing in the third Test of one of Rugby’s most fierce series in South Africa, Savea dislocated his shoulder, forcing an early return home and missing the fourth Test in Baltimore. The full scope of his recovery period will remain uncertain until post-surgery, but expectations are he might miss the action until the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific season kicks off.
Amidst the uncertainty surrounding the dissolution of Moana Pasifika, Savea’s next season club remains a mystery as the loose forward has yet to reveal his future plans. This adds another layer of suspense for fans and teammates alike as they await his decision.
The injury woes don’t end with Savea for the All Blacks. Luke Jacobson, another formidable loose forward, is recuperating from an elbow tendon surgery and is projected to be out of play for five months. His absence is felt deeply, especially since he's become a staple under the new coach, Dave Rennie.
"Boks can’t get much better."
Additionally, winger Caleb Clarke faces a similar five-month hiatus from the field due to a shoulder tendon rupture. This series of injuries hits the All Blacks hard as they line up their strategies for the upcoming matches.
Veteran centre Anton Lienert-Brown is also on the injury list, battling an MCL injury that sidelines him for potentially up to six weeks. Consequently, he will miss the pivotal Bledisloe Cup Tests against Australia scheduled for October 10th and 17th. The backline feels the impact of his absence, considering his extensive experience.
Adding to the All Blacks' challenges, Billy Proctor encountered a shoulder blade fracture early during the South African tour, putting him on a recovery timeline similar to Lienert-Brown’s. Both will miss the upcoming Bledisloe Cup, leaving significant gaps in the lineup as the team strategizes against their longstanding rivals.
"Boks show All Blacks what they’re missing."
The All Blacks now face a critical period of regrouping and reassessment as they prepare for their appointments without several key players. The road ahead is tough, but the resilience and depth of the team will undoubtedly be put to the test as they navigate through these turbulent times.
