Discarded All Black Noah Hotham is being rushed to South Africa later today as injuries continue to beset the All Blacks.
The 23-year-old Tasman Mako and Crusaders halfback will replace Cortez Ratima, who suffered a knee injury against the Bulls on Sunday.
Ironically, Noah’s test debut came in 2024 when Cortez came off injured against Fiji in San Diego.
He played two more tests last year against France and the Springboks but his Crusaders teammate Kyle Preston had been preferred for the South African tour.
First choice halfback Cam Roigard and Tasman outside back Will Jordan, who haven’t featured in the first three games, are expected to be named in the All Blacks test side later this week.
After flying back to Nelson, after the Mako beat Counties Manukau 50-35 in Pukekohe last night, Noah is off to South Africa on Monday.
That leaves the Mako with just two available halfbacks, club players Wil Thornalley and Mason Lund, who have both made one appearance this season.
Former All Black Mitchell Drummond is still recovering from injury.
Head coach Jono Phillips confirms they are still working through their options.
