Robertson names one uncapped player in All Blacks squad for Rugby Championship

Mon, Aug 4, 2025, 2:30 AM
AFP
by AFP
Simon Parker has been called into the All Blacks squad. Photo: Getty Images
Simon Parker has been called into the All Blacks squad. Photo: Getty Images

New Zealand head coach Scott Robertson on Monday named one uncapped player in his squad for the Rugby Championship, which begins this month when the All Blacks play back-back Tests in Argentina.

Chiefs flanker Simon Parker was included for the first time for the opening match against the Pumas in Cordoba on August 16.

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"Simon Parker had an impressive Super Rugby season with the Chiefs and brings a valuable skill set and physicality that we are looking forward to working with," Robertson said.

"He has the ability to play blindside or No.8 and has gained experience in a number of New Zealand representative teams, so we believe he is ready for the step up."

Robertson named three uncapped players as injury cover -- prop Tevita Mafileo, scrum-half Kyle Preston and versatile back Leroy Carter.

Tyrel Lomax, Luke Jacobson, Cam Roigard, Noah Hotham and Caleb Clarke will not travel because of injury.

"While we are clearly disappointed for our men who are currently recovering from injuries, that has also created opportunities for a number of deserving players," Robertson said.

"These players have earned the opportunity through consistent performance, and we know that they will take this chance.

"It is also fantastic to have Tamaiti Williams and Wallace Sititi returning from their injuries, as well as welcoming Peter Lakai, Finlay Christie and Josh Lord back into the group."

New Zealand squad

Backs: Cortez Ratima, Cam Roigard, Noah Hotham, Beauden Barrett, Damian McKenzie, Anton Lienert-Brown, Jordie Barrett, Quinn Tupaea, Billy Proctor, Timoci Tavatavanawai, Rieko Ioane, Caleb Clarke, Sevu Reece, Emoni Narawa, Will Jordan, Ruben Love

Forwards: Codie Taylor, Samisoni Taukei'aho, Brodie McAlister, Ethan de Groot, Tamaiti Williams, Ollie Norris, Tyrel Lomax, Fletcher Newell, Pasilio Tosi, Scott Barrett, Patrick Tuipulotu, Tupou Vaa'i, Fabian Holland, Samipeni Finau, Simon Parker, Ardie Savea, Du'Plessis Kirifi, Wallace Sititi, Peter Lakai, Luke Jacobson

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