Conversations remain ‘open’ about reeling in Tongan star back to All Blacks

The All Blacks’ new head coach Scott ‘Razor’ Robertson used his first press conference as head coach to highlight his position on selecting overseas players for the All Blacks 2024 season.

Among the range of topics broached, Razor was asked if he would like Richie Mo’unga to be available for selection for the team’s test matches this year.

“I’ve talked to and presented to the board, CEOs of Super Rugby, PUs (Provincial Unions), with Heartland and explained around keeping an open mind in that space.

“I’ve asked (for them) to keep an open mind about where the game is currently. It’s moving quite quickly, there’s a lot of on and off field, with players decisions and contract signings, so keep an open mind.”

Robinson went on to explain that the All Black management team were keeping an eye on oversea-based New Zealand players.

Richie Mo’unga joins All Black captain Ardie Savea and Shannon Frizell as the All Blacks of Pacific descent in Japan’s League One competition.

While star youngster Leicester Fainga’anuku heads to the French club Toulon and Nepo Laulala joins All Black great Jerome Kaino at Toulouse.
Robinson was asked twice if his former player Mo’unga would suit up in an All Blacks jersey in the near future - despite the domestic-only eligibility rules.

But Razor would only confirm he was keeping conversations “open” on recruiting overseas All Blacks and keeping a close eye on their performances.

“We give them feedback, keep an eye on them, watch and give feedback too. What habits of an All Black are required, and how they can get the best out of themselves (in Japan) on and off the field.”

Robinson called up a 22-man squad for a two-day training camp ahead of his first season as All Blacks head coach. He says the returning players have been “fit” and in good “knick” after the holiday season.

Players in camp: Jordie Barrett, Scott Barrett, Ethan Blackadder, Finlay Christie, Caleb Clarke, Ethan de Groot, David Havili, Rieko loane, Luke Jacobson, Will Jordan, Anton Lienert-Brown, Tyrel Lomax, Damian McKenzie, Emoni Narawa, Fletcher Newell, Dalton Papali'i, Cam Roigard, Samisoni Taukei'aho, Mark Tele'a, Ofa Tu'ungafasi, Tupou Vaa'i, Tama Williams.