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Roigard back in contention as four All Blacks return from injury
By Ben Smith
The All Blacks have been boosted by the return of four key players ahead of the Bledisloe series against the Wallabies, including two halfbacks.
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After battling a crisis of sorts at No.9, both Cam Roigard and Cortez Ratima are available for selection to ease fears after Noah Hotham became the latest injury concern in his start against the Springboks.
Ratima suffered a broken rib against Argentina a month ago, and Roigard has returned to action through the NPC with Counties after suffering a leg injury against France in July.
“We’re excited to have Cam Roigard back, Cortez Ratima is available for selection, Codie Taylor and Patrick Tuipulotu,” Robertson told media Monday.
“It’s good to get a couple of halfbacks come our way. We’re really pleased, they’ve worked hard.”
In the absence of Roigard and Ratima the All Blacks called back Finlay Christie, blooded uncapped rookie Kyle Preston, and tried Hotham across the two tests against South Africa.
But Robertson conceded that having Roigard back is huge for the All Blacks with one of the best halfbacks in the game.
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“Cam is really important to us, he’ll show you when he gets on the field the impact he can have,” Robertson said.
“Game management is strong, he can kick, and he’s got a hell of a pass so he’s right up there.”
Starting hooker Codie Taylor has been integral to the All Blacks set piece this season and his absence was felt in Wellington as a faltering lineout down the stretch played into the Springboks hands. Patrick Tuipulotu adds another experienced veteran into the second row.
The All Blacks are not expecting winger Emoni Narawa to be back for the Rugby Championship after he was injured against the Springboks in the first Test at Eden Park, but he is being monitored for a potential return on the end of year tour.
“It depends, it was a hell of an injury, as you know. He’s on medical report and he’s doing everything he can to be available,” he said.
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