The All Blacks have suffered another setback ahead of their highly anticipated showdown with the Springboks, with prop Ollie Norris becoming the fourth touring player to be ruled out through injury.
New Zealand are preparing for the opening Test of the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series against South Africa at Ellis Park this Saturday, but their preparations have been disrupted by a growing injury list.
Norris has been forced to return home after suffering a cartilage injury to his knee. The prop is expected to spend approximately six weeks on the sidelines, leaving the All Blacks to bring in additional cover for the front row.
Norris becomes fourth All Black sent home
Norris joins three other New Zealand players who have already been ruled out during the tour.
The growing injury list includes:
- George Bell – Hooker: Ruled out with a calf injury before the tour began.
- Billy Proctor – Centre: Sent home after suffering a fractured shoulder blade against the Stormers.
- Caleb Clarke – Winger: Returned to New Zealand after sustaining a ruptured shoulder tendon against the Sharks.
- Ollie Norris – Prop: Ruled out after suffering a knee cartilage injury.
The latest setback leaves New Zealand having to manage their squad carefully as the pressure increases ahead of the opening Test against the world champion Springboks.
Hotham called up as Ratima continues recovery
The All Blacks have also had concerns around scrumhalf Cortez Ratima, who suffered a knee injury during New Zealand’s emphatic victory over the Bulls at Loftus Versfeld.
With Ratima continuing to undergo assessment, Canterbury and Crusaders halfback Noah Hotham has been called into the squad as injury cover.
His arrival provides additional depth as New Zealand prepares for what is expected to be a significantly tougher challenge against South Africa.
All Blacks arrive with confidence
Despite the injuries, New Zealand have enjoyed an encouraging start to their South African campaign.
The All Blacks have recorded three convincing victories on tour, giving the squad plenty of confidence heading into the four-Test series.
Captain Ardie Savea is also set to return after being rested during the early stages of the tour, while experienced flyhalf Richie Mo’unga has joined the squad and adds another major attacking option.
The combination of returning stars and impressive early results means the All Blacks are unlikely to be intimidated by the challenge awaiting them at Ellis Park.
All Blacks believe they can challenge the Boks
New Zealand attack coach Mike Blair has indicated that belief within the squad is growing.
The All Blacks recognise that facing South Africa presents a completely different challenge, particularly given the Boks’ physicality and ability to control matches.
Blair stressed the importance of making the most of the limited opportunities New Zealand are likely to receive against the Springboks.
That could prove decisive when the two traditional rivals finally meet.
Springboks vs All Blacks showdown awaits
The opening Test of the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series takes place at Ellis Park in Johannesburg on Saturday, 22 August.
With New Zealand dealing with several injuries but entering the contest with strong momentum, and South Africa boasting significant depth and home advantage, the stage is set for another fascinating chapter in one of rugby’s biggest rivalries.
Can the All Blacks overcome their growing injury list and shock the Springboks in Johannesburg?
