Ngani Laumape has received a surprise recall to the All Blacks squad ahead of this weekend’s opening Bledisloe Cup Test against the Wallabies in Wellington.
Midfield wrecking ball Ngani Laumape has been called up to the All Blacks squad as an injury replacement for Braydon Ennor, although he has still not recovered fully from a broken arm.
The Hurricanes’ Laumape missed out on Steve Hansen’s World Cup squad in Japan last year and his 2020 season looked in jeopardy when he suffered the arm injury during the Super Rugby Aotearoa tournament in July.
All Blacks coach Ian Foster told reporters in Wellington on Tuesday that Laumape would train with the squad but Sunday’s season-opening Bledisloe Cup Test against the Wallabies in Wellington was too soon for him.
“No, he’s not back to 100 (per cent). He’s in a regulation check-up time and will train with us for a couple of days,” Foster said.
“We’re in Wellington so it’s easy for him. He gets another specialist view later this week, early next week then we’ll make our plan accordingly.
“He’s trending well but it’s a bone (injury) so the determination will be after he sees the specialist and the X-rays and see where we go from there.”
Jack Goodhue, Anton Lienert-Brown and Rieko Ioane are the midfield options for Sunday’s clash, but Laumape’s elevation could see him make an extended squad for the Rugby Championship in Australia next month.
Explosive with ball in hand, 27-year-old Laumape played the last of his 13 Tests off the bench in August last year, a 36-0 thrashing of the Wallabies at Eden Park.
His midfield partner at the Hurricanes, Peter Umaga-Jensen, has also joined the All Blacks squad as injury cover.
DAVEC
Roar Rookie
he is with the squad maybe playing in the rugby championship
Panana split
Roar Rookie
AUS can't be accused of relying on islanders to win if they always lose :laughing: :laughing: . Terry, why aren't you crying about OZ relying on islanders to lose?
Paddy
Guest
And we will have that tiny slow speedbump Toomua. Please Rennie do not pick him at 12.Rennie be brave put your stamp on the team and pick the form players.Toomua is so out of form it`s not funny.
Robert
Guest
Born in Samoa raised and played in Auckland and now a wallabie and here you were saying on another thread that nz relies on islanders, at least most of them are born in nz, how many wallabies are born in nz or the islands, time for you to get of the pipe,
Pinetree
Roar Rookie
I don't find it that surprising that Laumape has been called in for cover with all the injuries. Still think he will be an outside chance to start a game. I am more happy to hear that Peter Umaga-Jensen has been called for cover and is now in the mix. I think Umaga-Jensen has had a great season in SR, showing plenty of attacking X-factor, and the experience being in the AB squad will be great for the youngster for the future.
Carlin
Roar Rookie
He offers a good point of difference with his low centre of gravity and ability to punch through the midfield. I hope he gets a couple of test starts this year. Having him there gives the All Blacks are really good go forward option from set piece.
Yep and as soon as Ennor got injured it was pretty clear who his replacement would be...
Ben
Guest
Why is it a surprise? He, like Scott Barrett, has been training with the squad since it was first selected post the North v South match. After the AB squad was announced, Foster stated on the radio that Laumape and S. Barrett wouldve been officially selected if fit, however, he added, both were and still are training with them subject to fitness availability which was very close.
MO
Guest
Nonu improved late in his career so let's hope Laumape improves too. I love his straight running ability.
Terry Tavita
Roar Pro
Best to put paisami opposite him..same type of player..
Tony
Guest
Best news Ive heard for a long time - IMO was a huge selection blunder not taking him to the RWC - Go Luamape :)