McKenzie Ankle Doubt
All Blacks Concerned Over McKenzie Ankle Injury Ahead of Crucial South Africa Test Opener
New Zealand's All Blacks are sweating on the fitness of fullback Damian McKenzie ahead of their test series opener against South Africa, after he twisted his ankle in training. AP News reports the injury has cast doubt over his availability for the first test at Ellis Park, one of rugby's most demanding venues.
The good news for the All Blacks is that two other injured backs, halfback Cam Roigard and wing Will Jordan, are expected to be fit for the series. If McKenzie also recovers in time, all three would likely start against the Springboks in the opening match, Yahoo Sports reported.
McKenzie's Ankle Puts Fullback Spot in Doubt
McKenzie twisted his ankle in the lead-up to the South Africa series. The All Blacks are monitoring his recovery closely, but no timeline for his return has been confirmed. His absence would be a significant blow. McKenzie is one of New Zealand's most dangerous attacking weapons from fullback. AP News noted the team is anxious to have him ready for the Ellis Park clash.
Fly-half Richie Mo'unga, also injured, will not be considered for the first test at all. His exclusion from selection for the opener leaves New Zealand's backline options thinner than the coaching staff would prefer heading into one of rugby's fiercest rivalries.
Roigard and Jordan Expected to Return for Series
While McKenzie's status remains uncertain, the All Blacks received a boost with Roigard and Jordan both on track to return. The two backs had been sidelined with injuries before the tour. Their comeback would restore significant firepower to New Zealand's backline, according to Yahoo Sports.
Roigard has been one of New Zealand's standout halfbacks in recent seasons. Jordan, when fit, is considered among the most dangerous wings in world rugby. Having both available gives coach Dave Rennie far more flexibility in how he sets up his backline against the Springboks.
All Blacks Praise Performance in Final Tour Warmup
Before the test series, the All Blacks played a warmup game against the Bulls. Hooker Codie Taylor praised the team's performance in that match. Coach Dave Rennie also spoke positively about how the squad performed, suggesting they are building momentum heading into the Springboks showdown, Winnipeg Free Press reported.
The All Blacks' last official test was at the 2023 Rugby World Cup. That makes the South Africa series their first test action in several months. The rust of a long break makes fitness and rhythm critical — which is exactly why McKenzie's ankle situation is drawing so much attention from New Zealand fans and selectors alike.
Lions Match Looms Three Days After Test Opener
Three days after the Ellis Park test against South Africa, the All Blacks face the Lions province. It is a tight turnaround. The back-to-back schedule means New Zealand's squad depth will be tested quickly. Players who miss the first test through injury could find themselves needed sooner than expected, Beaumont Enterprise noted.
The tight scheduling puts extra pressure on the All Blacks to manage player workloads carefully. If McKenzie is not fit for the Springboks test, the Lions match three days later gives him a secondary target for his return. Either way, New Zealand's medical staff will be working hard to get their fullback back on the field as soon as possible.
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