mens
international
Dave Rennie gave an open explanation for the absence of Tyrel Lomax’s name in the All black people‘ team to play the Wallabies at Eden Park this weekend.
Lomax has been regarded as New Zealand’s main prop for the past five years, but a recent string of injuries has disrupted his form and he has so far struggled to make his mark in the international season.
As a result, Fletcher Newell has been backed in the number 3 jersey and will take on Australian Angus Bell in time for the Auckland before Pasilio Tosi enters the match from the bench.
Speaking to reporters after announcing his match day 23 for the Test, Rennie got straight to the point when talking about Lomax’s omission.
“We just want more from him. He has a clear message about what we need to see and he’s worked very hard this week. I’m sure we’ll get an answer the next time he gets the chance,” the coach said.
Rennie said this week’s selection was “probably the toughest side we’ve had to pick”, with three selection meetings needed to finalize the 23-man list.
Another man who missed the cut after that debate was reigning World Rugby Player of the Year Fabian Holland, who was beaten to the posts by Josh Lord and the returning Scott Barrett.
“It was one of the tough decisions,” mused Rennie when asked about the second-row selection. “Obviously, we’re really pleased with how Josh Lord went. He had a limited involvement in it South Africa after a knockout; he had a 12-day rest, which ruled him out of Tests two and three, and then returned via the bench.
“We’re lucky there; we’ve got some really good options and he (Holland) is unlucky to miss.”
With Ardie Savea and Luke Jacobson unavailable for selection, a new forward trio had to be put together and the selectors eventually settled on Tupou Vaa’i, Peter Lakai and Wallace Sititi. While Lakai is no stranger to the No.7 jersey, it will be his first run at openside for the All Blacks.
“He’s been great for us,” Rennie said of the 23-year-old. “He’s a real presence after the fight, a great athlete. He’s not a massive man, but he’s really good at getting his body in front, whether it’s clearing or trying to fight. And he’s got a big motor, so we’re really confident about that. We’ve got Anton (Segner) on the bench, who can easily step into that role.”
