All Blacks star sent home from South Africa with immediate effect

Tuesday, 04 August 2026 at 08:05

bySteven Smith

The All Blacks have been dealt another injury setback after hooker George Bell was ruled out of the remainder of their South Africa tour with a calf injury.

Bell picked up the problem during a training session in Cape Town on Sunday and will now return to New Zealand to begin his rehabilitation.

Medical staff expect the injury to keep the hooker sidelined for between four and six weeks, ending his involvement in the Rugby Championship tour.

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Dave Rennie reacts to Bell setback

All Blacks head coach Dave Rennie admitted the squad were devastated for Bell, who has endured a frustrating run with injuries.

"We are all gutted for George, to be ruled out of the tour so early.

"He's had a frustrating past few months with injury so it's a real blow for him to have injured his calf again. We look forward to seeing him return via the NPC and put himself in a position to push for All Blacks selection later in the year."

Bell's latest setback comes at an unfortunate time, with the hooker looking to cement his place in the national squad after breaking into the All Blacks setup.

Bradley Slater called into All Blacks squad

The All Blacks have moved quickly to replace Bell, with Bradley Slater called into the touring squad.

The 27-year-old Taranaki and Blues hooker is due to arrive in South Africa on Wednesday.

Slater comes from a strong rugby family. His father, Andy Slater, is regarded as a Taranaki rugby legend, while his uncle Gordon Slater played six matches for the All Blacks, including three Tests, between 1997 and 2000.

He first caught the eye at New Plymouth Boys' High School, where he represented both the First XV and First XI before earning New Zealand Schools honours.

Slater joined the Chiefs in 2019 and made more than 60 appearances for the Super Rugby side before switching to the Blues ahead of the 2026 season.

His impressive form also earned him selection for the All Blacks XV in both 2024 and 2025, and he will now have the chance to make his mark with the senior national side after receiving a late call-up to the squad.