New Zealand head coach Dave Rennie has expressed optimism regarding the availability of wing Will Jordan and scrum-half Cam Roigard for the upcoming first Test against South Africa. The match is scheduled for next Saturday in Johannesburg. Both players are being considered for selection as the team prepares for this crucial encounter.
Another All Black not involved so far in the first extended tour by New Zealand to South Africa since 1996 is captain and No. 8 Ardie Savea. “We have played reasonably well on tour, and to put 50 points on a very good Bulls side is a positive.
“We won’t pick him for the first Test, but we will give him some game time against the Lions on the following Tuesday.
Rennie said there was a slight concern about Damian McKenzie, who can operate at full-back and fly-half. We are expecting all three of them to be available,” he said. Reflecting on the eight-try victory over the Bulls, Rennie said: “This was certainly not our Test side this evening, there will be a number of changes.
“Will and Cam have come through a training session, so we are confident they will be fine. “We are less confident about Damian, but there is still a good chance he will be available. We just want them to have a full week of training,” Rennie said in Pretoria on Saturday.
Richie Joins Team with Enthusiasm
Richie arrived late last night and is eager to integrate into the team. The head coach noted his excitement, stating, “He is very excited and jumping out of his skin.”
Richie has already engaged in significant study to familiarize himself with the team’s gameplay, indicating a proactive approach to his new role.
