Jordan a doubt for Springboks Test as Rennie weighs options

All Blacks head coach Dave Rennie has indicated that star outside back Will Jordan remains a doubt for the upcoming first Test against the Springboks in Johannesburg, scheduled for August 22. Jordan's persistent back injury raises questions about his availability for the highly anticipated fixture.

Rennie confirmed that Jordan is “not quite right” for the opening Test. The 28-year-old speedster, a certainty in the starting lineup when fit, has been managing a back issue that precluded him from the All Blacks' initial two matches of their South African tour against the Stormers and Sharks, as well as the recent clash with the Bulls in Pretoria. Jordan's absence is significant, given his try-scoring prowess.

Jordan's Injury Woes Continue

Jordan's struggles began before the tour, having also missed the latter stages of the Crusaders’ Super Rugby Pacific season due to a calf problem. Despite hopes of his return, Rennie's original strategy for Jordan to play his first tour match against the Sharks was derailed. He was then considered for game time against the Bulls but was again omitted from the squad.

Although Rennie expressed reasonable confidence in Jordan’s eventual availability, he would not guarantee it, emphasizing the need for a full training week. Jordan's form in the Nations Championship Tests against France, Italy, and Ireland in July highlighted his importance, where he shone on the right wing. Last month, Will Jordan surpassed Doug Howlett in New Zealand's all-time Test try-scorer list with a hat-trick against Italy.

Scrum-half Roigard Expected to Feature

In other squad news, scrum-half Cam Roigard, who was a late withdrawal from the Sharks match due to a calf niggle, is expected to make his first appearance of the tour against the Springboks at Ellis Park. The initial plan for Roigard was a 30-minute bench stint against the Sharks, but a minor injury prevented it. Rennie is confident of his readiness for the first Test.

The All Blacks coaching staff will be keen to have Jordan, who is adept at both wing and fullback, involved in the four-Test series against their rivals, provided his fitness can be managed effectively. The team aims to avoid risking his long-term health. For comprehensive world rugby coverage, including previous discussions around Dave Rennie's coaching decisions, readers can refer to DJC Rugby archives.