July 27, 13:00

Dave Rennie announced the All Blacks squad for the South Africa tour

New Zealand national team coach Dave Rennie has presented a squad of 44 players for the upcoming major tour to South Africa. He noted that this mission is 'the toughest in rugby.'

Squad and Player Returns

The squad includes three players who have not previously played for the national team, as well as the return of Rieko Ioane and Fabian Holland. All 34 athletes who participated in the successful World Cup campaign this month were retained. Additionally, 10 people were added to the group to strengthen the squad ahead of the grueling seven-week tournament, which includes four series matches.

Among the seven players returning to the All Blacks was experienced forward Ioane, who recently completed his break with Irish club Leinster. Defender Holland also returned, having missed the entire Super Rugby season after a shoulder dislocation. The list also included Ollie Norris, George Bell, Ethan Blackadder, Timoci Tavatavanawai, and Emoni Narawa.

Newcomers and Team Leadership

The squad includes debutants Siale Lauaki, Semisi Tupou Ta'ieloa, and Josh Jacob, who will play against four provincial teams in addition to the series matches. Regular captain Scott Barrett, along with prop Tamaiti Williams and winger Lester Fainganuku, remain unavailable due to injuries. Ardie Savea will lead the team again, but he has been granted an extended break and will miss the first three games of the tour against Stormers, Sharks, and Bulls before playing in the series opener.

Coach's Comments on the Tour

Rennie stated that the tour will be a serious test and will require the players to give their best. He emphasized that the team has been formed to handle the challenges, presenting a balanced mix of experienced players from the tests and young athletes ready to demonstrate their skills.

The coach specified that considering eight matches over six weeks, including a series of four tests against the Springboks, this should be the toughest tour in rugby. He added that every player will be obliged to contribute throughout the tour, whether through game preparation or assisting teammates in training.

Series Match Schedule

The Rugby Championship (RGR) series will begin in Cape Town against the Stormers next weekend. The first test is scheduled for August 22nd at Ellis Park stadium. The second and third tests will take place at DHL Stadium in Cape Town and FNB Stadium in Johannesburg, respectively. After this, both teams will travel to the United States for the fourth and final match in Baltimore, Maryland.

Previously, the New Zealand national team won all three matches of the World Cup this month against Ireland, Italy, and France, marking a successful start to Rennie's tenure after his transition from Scott Robertson. South Africa also showed perfect form, defeating Wales, Scotland, and England.

iol.co.zaJuly 26, 18:45

South Africa Unveils 20-Player Squad for IIHF Women's Hockey World Championship

South Africa has released its list of 20 athletes to participate in the upcoming IIHF Women's Hockey World Championship. This squad represents a combination of experienced international players and young, promising talents.

Squad Announcement and Preparation

The squad was presented in Belgium and the Netherlands on Sunday. Team captain Edith Molikoe leads the group, which includes 10 Olympic champions, nine of whom represented South Africa at the Paris 2024 Olympics. The national team is preparing to face the world's best teams starting in mid-August.

Recent Successes and New Faces

The announcement followed a promising preparation period during which South Africa secured a convincing 4-0 victory over Namibia in a series of test matches in Cape Town. This allowed the coaching staff to refine various combinations before finalizing the squad.

Experienced players Ongizive Mali and Ntsopa Mokoena will join Molikoe, both of whom marked their 50th international appearance during the series against Namibia. Hannah Pearce also earned a spot after becoming the top scorer against Namibia, netting six goals in four matches, highlighting her importance from penalty corners.

Young Talents and Support

Tahira Augusti and Ontatile 'Tati' Zulu were also included in the squad, adding experience. Young players Ane Yanse van Vuuren and Kaylin Marie will aim to transition smoothly from the Junior World Championship to the main adult global tournament. South African President Deon Morgan congratulated the athletes on their selection, calling participation in the World Championship the greatest honor for a hockey player.

Financial Support and Future Plans

The squad announcement came shortly after Sports Minister Geyton Mackenzie approved financial assistance of 3 million rand to ensure that both the men's and women's teams can participate in the World Championship with full funding, given the financial constraints in South Africa. Following this, the South African women will continue preparations in a training camp and friendly matches in Scotland before heading to the Netherlands for the World Championship.