Dave Rennie lifts lid on Timcoci Tavatavanwai’s All Blacks omissions

All Blacks head coach Dave Rennie has explained why Highlanders star Timoci Tavatavanawai has seen limited international selection, stating that the backline player must improve his off-the-ball work rate. While praising his carrying, tackling, and post-tackle ability, Rennie noted that New Zealand's midfield system demands significant activity away from the ball, which has kept other players ahead of him in the selection order.

Tavatavanawai was taken to South Africa specifically to make fitness shifts, where he and teammate Semisi Ta'eiloa focused heavily on cardio training. Rennie confirmed that Tavatavanawai has progressed well and could potentially feature next week or during the end-of-year tour as he remains in contention for future World Cup selection.