Richie Mo'unga called up to All Blacks squad for Rugby's Greatest Rivalry

Proctor fractured his shoulder in the bruising 38-21 win over a spirited Stormers side in the Tour opener in Cape Town last Friday night.

The injury opens the door for the return of Mo'unga, who last featured for the national side in the 2023 Rugby World Cup Final loss to the Springboks. The talent - considered New Zealand's best flyhalf at the time - surrendered his All Black jersey when he signed a contract with Toshiba Brave Lupus in Japan Rugby League One.

However, having drawn the curtain on his time in Japan and signed an 18-month contract with his beloved Crusaders this year, Mo'unga re-entered the conversation. Now, having featured for Canterbury in the NPC, the 32-year-old is eligible for selection.

"We really feel for Billy," said coach Dave Rennie.

"He has had a great season so this is frustrating for him. It is the harsh reality of our game. We wish him all the best with his recovery and hope to see him fit and well in time for the end-of-year tour selection."

"Richie is the obvious choice as a replacement. His job now is to get in and learn our systems, get his head around the detail and earn the right to play."

Mo'unga will arrive in Johannesburg on Friday. The All Blacks are set to face the Bulls in Pretoria on Saturday.

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