In another blow to the All Blacks, winger Mark Tele'a has confirmed he is leaving New Zealand to head to Japan following the conclusion of the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season.
All Blacks playmaker Damian McKenzie has penned a long-term deal with New Zealand Rugby and the Chiefs, staying in New Zealand through to 2029.
Two-time Rugby World Cup winner Ma'a Nonu is set to be named in the Toulon squad to face Castres in the Top 14 clash this weekend.
Despite Richie Mo'unga opting to see out his contract in Japan, All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson remains hopeful that he will return to New Zealand ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
All Black Beauden Barrett's hand injury will not keep him on the sidelines for as long as initially feared.
The 2027 Rugby World Cup draw will be held much closer to the tournament itself, after an early draw prior to the 2034 edition resulted in a lop-sided draw.