All Blacks: Ruben Love set to start at fly-half against Springboks

All Blacks coach Dave Rennie has strongly indicated that Ruben Love will wear the number 10 jersey against the Springboks in the opening Test of the Greatest Rivalry series at Ellis Park on 22 August.

Love started all three of New Zealand’s Nations Championship Tests during the build-up to the tour and appears set to retain the fly-half role despite the late addition of veteran Richie Mo’unga to the squad.

Mo’unga was recalled after centre Billy Proctor was forced to return to New Zealand because of a shoulder injury. Although he is a fly-half, the former All Blacks player was eligible for selection after representing Canterbury in the NPC, meeting New Zealand Rugby’s requirements.

Rennie said there had been no need to replace Proctor with another centre because the squad already had sufficient cover in midfield. Rieko Ioane, selected as a winger, can also play at centre.

“We have enough cover in the midfield, although we picked Rieko [Ioane] as a winger, he can still cover at centre. As for Richie, he is a player that is good enough to apply pressure for selection at some stage, maybe against the Lions.”

Asked whether Mo’unga could be brought straight into the Test team, Rennie praised Love’s performances and suggested the younger player remained in possession of the position.

“We’re really happy with how Ruben’s been going, with Damian [McKenzie], who we’re predominantly using at 15 now, with Beauden [Barrett] and even Josh [Jacomb].

“It’s about creating depth in those positions, and Richie brings a lot of experience.

“But you know, as I mentioned [when announcing his call-up] he’s going to have to earn the right [to be selected].”

Rennie also revealed that he had spoken to the four fly-halves in the touring group before discussing Mo’unga’s return with the experienced playmaker.

“Yeah, look, I met with all four 10s. I spoke to them before I’d even spoken to Richie,” Rennie said.

“I just wanted them to understand that obviously Richie has been signed back to New Zealand rugby, you know, my job as head coach is to pick the best players available.

“Ruben was saying how good it would be to have him in, you know, a chance to learn.

“But, you know, at the moment it’s been Ruben’s jersey, and he’s going well, so we’re happy with that.

“But it’ll be good competition.”

Mo’unga’s arrival gives Rennie an experienced option as New Zealand build depth in the fly-half and full-back positions. Damian McKenzie is currently being used mainly at full-back, while Beauden Barrett and Josh Jacomb are also part of the competition for selection.

The All Blacks will first face the Bulls in the third match of the Greatest Rivalry Tour on Saturday. Kick-off is scheduled for 19:00.

Their first Test against the Springboks will then take place at Ellis Park on 22 August.