Ruben Love has been ruled out of the All Blacks’ upcoming Bledisloe Cup Tests after suffering an ankle ligament injury.
The 25-year-old was a notable absentee when New Zealand named their 34-man squad to face Australia on Tuesday morning.
The official squad announcement confirmed Love has joined the All Blacks’ growing injury list. His injury is still being assessed, with no return-to-play timeframe yet confirmed. Super Rugby
It is a frustrating setback for the Hurricanes playmaker, who had established himself as a genuine option at number 10 during New Zealand’s recent four-Test series against South Africa.
Love ruled out
Love started the opening three Tests against the Springboks before Richie Mo’unga returned to the starting side for the final match in Baltimore.
Mo’unga had initially missed the tour because of New Zealand Rugby’s eligibility rules, before receiving a late call-up and making his Test return.
Love will now miss both Bledisloe Cup Tests, starting with the clash at Eden Park on 10 October. The return fixture takes place at Sydney’s Accor Stadium seven days later. Super Rugby
His absence leaves Mo’unga and uncapped Josh Jacomb as the two specialist first five-eighths named in the squad.
Beauden Barrett and Damian McKenzie provide further options if required.
Mo’unga handed opportunity
The injury could now open the door for Mo’unga to take control of the All Blacks number 10 shirt.
The 32-year-old returned to New Zealand this year following three seasons in Japan and made his first Test appearance since the 2023 Rugby World Cup during the recent South Africa series. AFP
Love is not the only player unavailable.
Patrick Tuipulotu has been ruled out with a calf strain, while Ardie Savea, Luke Jacobson, Anton Lienert-Brown, Billy Proctor, Caleb Clarke and Ollie Norris are also on the injury list. Super Rugby
There is better news for New Zealand with Scott Barrett returning after his spell on the sidelines, while Shannon Frizell is back in the All Blacks squad for the first time since 2023.
Codie Taylor will captain the side in Savea’s absence as the All Blacks prepare to defend the Bledisloe Cup, which they have held since 2003.
