All Blacks Face Challenges Ahead of Second Test Against South Africa

The All Blacks will be without two key players for the upcoming second test against South Africa, scheduled for September 13, 2024, at Sky Stadium in Wellington. Hooker Codie Taylor left the field after just half an hour during Saturday’s match, which ended in a narrow 24-17 victory at Eden Park. He did not pass the head injury assessment (HIA). Additionally, wing Emoni Narawa sustained rib injuries from a mid-air collision.

Taylor’s absence is a significant setback for the All Blacks, but Samisoni Taukei’aho has shown himself to be a capable replacement. He is expected to start in Taylor’s place. Brodie McAlister, who may move to the bench, will likely be joined by a new face as injury cover. Coach Scott Robertson faces an interesting decision regarding the selection, as he could opt for young talents like Jack Taylor or Manumaua Letiu to gain experience in the high-pressure environment of international rugby.

The wing position also remains fluid following Narawa’s injury. His initial selection was somewhat surprising, yet he proved his worth by scoring a remarkable try within minutes of the match’s start. With Narawa out, Sevu Reece could be considered for a return to the squad, while Caleb Clarke is now fit after playing two games for Auckland in the National Provincial Championship (NPC).

In the aftermath of Narawa’s departure, the All Blacks reshuffled their backline, with Damian McKenzie stepping in at fullback and Will Jordan taking over Narawa’s wing position. Despite the win, forwards coach Jason Ryan acknowledged several areas needing improvement, specifically addressing the team’s scrummaging.

Ryan noted, “We were a bit messy, especially on our ball. There was one where they climbed into us and we lost our footing, and we tried to get back up, but it was too late. That will be a never-again moment.” This misstep allowed Springbok hooker Malcolm Marx to score a try, capitalizing on a strong run by No.8 Kwagga Smith toward the All Blacks’ line.

While Ryan expressed satisfaction with the team’s intensity, he recognized the need for better control. “I liked the intensity we brought from the start,” he reflected. “It had a bit of everything. We adapted well, but there were parts where we took the pressure off. It was on a knife-edge, but that’s test footy – it swings so quick.”

The match took place under heightened pressure for the All Blacks, as they faced the Springboks at Eden Park for the first time in twelve years. Ryan remarked, “You often hear the saying ‘pressure is a privilege’, but the reality is pressure is a lifestyle when you’re in the All Blacks. That’s the way it’s got to be. There was a lot on this one, but we’ve got to make sure we build that edge and some this week.”

With the second test on the horizon, the All Blacks will need to address these challenges to maintain their competitive edge against a formidable South African side.