Wellington, New Zealand — In a strategic move to bolster their squad for what promises to be one of the most grueling and prestigious tours in recent rugby history, the All Blacks have expanded their team by 10 players, including three uncapped debutants, ahead of their four-test series against South Africa’s Springboks. The tour, set to begin in August 2024, will also include four franchise matches and a test against the USA, marking a return to the traditional, high-intensity touring format that predates the professional era of rugby union.
A Squad Built for Challenge and Legacy
Head coach Dave Rennie announced the 44-player squad, an expansion from the 34-player Nations Championship team that dominated with victories over France, Italy, and Ireland. All original squad members have been retained, ensuring continuity and experience while integrating fresh talent.
The three first-time All Blacks caps are:
– Siale Lauaki, a prop forward from the Hurricanes, known for his physicality and leadership in the front row.
– Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa, a back-rower from Moana Pasifika, bringing raw power and defensive prowess to the squad.
– Josh Jacomb, a flyhalf from the Chiefs, whose playmaking and distribution could be a game-changer in midfield.
The remaining additions include:
– Ollie Norris (prop, Hurricanes)
– George Bell (hooker, Blues)
– Fabian Holland (lock, Blues)
– Ethan Blackadder (back-rower, Blues)
– Timoci Tavatavanawai (center, Blues)
– Rieko Ioane (center, Blues)
– Emoni Narawa (winger, Hurricanes)
All Blacks head coach Dave Rennie presents the expanded squad ahead of the South Africa tour.
A Return to Classic Touring: Weekend and Midweek Matches
This tour represents a return to the traditional rugby touring format, where matches are scheduled across weekends and midweeks, a style not seen since before 1995, when professional rugby union began. The schedule is intense, with eight matches in six weeks, demanding peak physical and mental performance from every player.
The franchise matches will take place at:
– Stormers in Cape Town (August 8)
– Sharks in Durban (August 12)
– Bulls in Pretoria (August 16)
– Lions in Johannesburg (August 26)
The test series will follow, with matches in:
– Johannesburg (August 23)
– Cape Town (August 30)
– Johannesburg (September 6)
– Baltimore, USA (September 13)
The Greatest Rivalry in Rugby: South Africa vs. New Zealand
Ranked No. 1 and No. 2 in the world respectively, the All Blacks and Springboks hold the distinction of being the most storied rivalry in rugby history. Their 110 test match history is a testament to their competitive legacy, with New Zealand winning 63 times, South Africa 43, and four draws.
The last time the All Blacks won a test series in South Africa was in 1996, following failed attempts in 1928, 1948, 1960, 1970, and 1976. The 2024 tour is being framed as a revivification of this historic rivalry, with both teams aiming to assert dominance in the current era.
A Squad of Experience and Youth
Rennie emphasized the balance between experienced test players and rising stars, ensuring a cohesive, adaptable team capable of handling the physical and tactical demands of South Africa’s world-class rugby.
“This tour will challenge us and demand the very best of us,” Rennie stated. “We have selected a squad that we know is up to the challenge. It’s a blend of veterans who understand the pressure and younger players eager to prove themselves. For those pulling on the All Blacks jersey for the first time, this is a dream opportunity—and for those returning, it’s a chance to rebuild trust and unity.”
The coach also highlighted the mental and physical toll of the schedule, noting that every player will be required to contribute, whether in preparation, recovery, or on-field performance.
Captaincy Rotation: Ardie Savea Takes a Break
While Ardie Savea will captain the All Blacks in the test matches, Rennie announced that alternative captains will likely lead in the franchise matches. Savea, who has carried a heavy workload in recent years, will arrive in South Africa just before the first test, allowing him to recharge and return fully focused for the series.
“Ardie has done an incredible job, but we want him to come back fresh,” Rennie explained. “We have several outstanding leaders in this squad, and we’re confident they’ll step up when needed.”
Preparing for Rugby World Cup 2027
Beyond the immediate challenge of the South Africa tour, Rennie sees this as a critical preparation period for the 2027 Rugby World Cup. The intensity of the schedule, the opportunity to face the world’s best, and the bonding that comes from touring will be invaluable in shaping the All Blacks’ approach to the upcoming global competition.
“This is the toughest tour in recent rugby history,” Rennie concluded. “But it’s also an opportunity to test ourselves against the best, refine our tactics, and grow as a team. What we learn—both on and off the field—will be crucial for our future success, including in 2027.”
The All Blacks squad gathers ahead of the South Africa tour, blending experience and youth for the historic challenge.
A Tour of Unprecedented Demand
With eight matches in six weeks, including four tests against the Springboks, this tour is unlike any other in recent memory. Players will face fatigue, travel demands, and high-pressure matchups, but Rennie is confident in their ability to adapt and excel.
“It’s going to be grueling,” Rennie acknowledged. “But that’s the nature of great rugby. We’re not just preparing for a series—we’re preparing for the future of the All Blacks.”
New Zealand’s 1996 victory in South Africa remains their last test series win in the country, adding urgency to the 2024 tour.
The Road Ahead: A Test of Character and Skill
As the All Blacks prepare to embark on this monumental journey, the focus remains on excellence, resilience, and the pursuit of rugby’s greatest rivalry. With three first-time caps, a rotating captaincy, and a schedule that tests endurance, this tour is set to be more than just a series—it’s a statement of intent for the All Blacks’ future dominance.
Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa, Josh Jacomb, and Siale Lauaki—three new faces who will don the All Blacks jersey for the first time in South Africa.
The Stormers, Sharks, Bulls, and Lions franchise matches will set the stage for the test series against South Africa.
Ardie Savea will lead the All Blacks in tests but will take a break before the tour to ensure peak performance.
The 2027 Rugby World Cup looms as the ultimate goal, with this tour serving as a critical preparation phase.
The All Blacks’ 1996 victory in South Africa remains their last, making the 2024 tour a historic opportunity to reclaim dominance.
