All Blacks: Assessing the growing injury toll ahead of Northern Tour

Dave Rennie has used more players than Scott Robertson did in two years at the All Blacks.

By Ben Francis · NZ Herald

Published: Monday, 19 October 2026 at 10:00 PM

Key Things to Know

The All Blacks face an extensive injury list that will severely challenge squad depth ahead of the Northern Tour.
New Zealand has fielded 52 different players across tests and tour fixtures in Dave Rennie's first season.
Key starters including captain Ardie Savea, Luke Jacobson, and Caleb Clarke have been ruled out for the year.

The Story in 60 Seconds

The All Blacks are facing a major injury crisis ahead of their upcoming Northern Tour, forcing head coach Dave Rennie to test squad depth extensively. New Zealand has already fielded 52 players across nine tests and four tour matches this year, matching the total used by former coach Scott Robertson over a two-season span.

Several key starters are sidelined with season-ending injuries, including captain Ardie Savea, Luke Jacobson, Ollie Norris, Ruben Love, Billy Proctor, Caleb Clarke, and Leroy Carter. Playmaker Richie Mo'unga faces serious doubt due to a calf issue, though Jordie Barrett and Leicester Fainga'anuku are expected to return for the 36-man tour squad.

Read the full article on NZ Herald

All Blacks: Assessing the growing injury toll ahead of Northern Tour

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