Richie Mo’unga is set to make a surprise return to the All Blacks squad after Billy Proctor was ruled out of the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series with a shoulder injury.
Proctor suffered a fractured shoulder blade during New Zealand’s tour-opening win over the Stormers in Cape Town and will now return home to begin his recovery.
The 25-year-old centre had started at outside centre for the All Blacks and was coming off an impressive season, making the injury a major setback.
All Blacks head coach Dave Rennie admitted the news was difficult for Proctor after the midfielder had worked hard to put himself in contention.
“We really feel for Billy. He has had a great season so this is frustrating for him.”
Rennie added that injuries are an unfortunate part of professional rugby and said the team hoped Proctor would recover in time to be considered for the end-of-year tour.
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Mo’unga Returns After Nearly Three Years Away
While Proctor’s injury is a significant blow, his absence has opened the door for one of New Zealand’s most recognisable stars.
Richie Mo’unga has been called back into the All Blacks squad for the first time since the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
The 31-year-old last pulled on the black jersey during New Zealand’s run to the World Cup final in France, where he started at fly-half before the All Blacks ultimately fell to South Africa.
Mo’unga subsequently moved to Japan, joining Toshiba Brave Lupus Tokyo and continuing to establish himself as one of the game’s premier attacking playmakers.
His return to New Zealand rugby has now given him another opportunity to push for international honours.
Mo’unga Has Been In Form Since Returning
Mo’unga returned to New Zealand rugby with Canterbury and has already featured twice during the 2026 NPC season.
His performances have reportedly impressed the All Blacks selectors, with his form helping put him firmly back on the radar.
Now, after almost three years away from international rugby, Mo’unga has a chance to make an unexpected return to the All Blacks environment.
For New Zealand, his experience could prove valuable as the team continues its Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry campaign.
For Mo’unga, meanwhile, it represents an opportunity to remind everyone exactly why he was once considered one of the world’s best fly-halves.
Billy Proctor’s injury has closed one door for New Zealand — but it has unexpectedly reopened another for Richie Mo’unga.
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