All Blacks Call Up Simon Parker for Rugby Championship Tests

The All Blacks have announced that loose forward Simon Parker has been included in their squad for the upcoming Rugby Championship tests against Argentina. Parker, standing at 1.97 meters and weighing 120 kilograms, has emerged as a crucial addition following a standout season with the Chiefs, where he finally made his mark after previous injury setbacks.

Initially, Parker was ruled out of the recent series against France due to injury, leading to the selection of Christian Lio-Willie as a backup. Lio-Willie performed admirably during the All Blacks’ 3-0 series victory. However, Parker’s physical presence is seen as a vital component that Scott Robertson seeks to enhance the forward pack’s overall size and strength.

Despite the talents of Ardie Savea and Wallace Sititi, the loose forwards have lacked the bulk necessary for dominating play. Previous adjustments included moving Tupou Vaa’i to the blindside, which proved successful, and giving Samipeni Finau ample opportunity to assert himself in the lineup. Parker draws comparisons to Liam Squire, who had been the most promising solution for the blindside position since Jerome Kaino left the team a decade ago. Both players share similar physical attributes, making Parker a potential long-term fixture in the squad.

The All Blacks’ upcoming tests in Argentina will also see other new faces, with six players named as injury cover. Notably, injuries to Cam Roigard and Noah Hotham mean that either Finlay Christie or Kyle Preston is likely to back up Cortez Ratima at halfback. This adjustment raises concerns about the depth at the halfback position, potentially prompting a shift in tactics to relieve pressure on the forwards.

Adding to the intrigue is Leroy Carter, who had an impressive season with the Chiefs and has also performed well at the provincial level as a halfback. Carter recently showcased his versatility by excelling at centre for Bay of Plenty, further highlighting his ability to contribute in various roles.

Tevita Mafileo rounds out the list of new additions, bringing valuable experience from a robust Hurricanes scrum over the past two seasons. The depth and versatility of the squad are being tested ahead of a challenging trip to Argentina.

Robertson has the advantage of experienced players like Beauden Barrett, who will lead as first five-eighth, and Will Jordan, positioned at fullback. The return of Scott Barrett adds another layer of complexity to the lock selection, particularly with the emergence of Fabian Holland and the return of Sititi. Decisions regarding Vaa’i’s position—whether to shift him back to lock or keep him in the loose forward role—will be pivotal for the team’s balance.

The competition for wing positions is also heating up. While Caleb Clarke and Sevu Reece currently hold starting roles, Carter’s exceptional speed could see him break into the lineup.

The All Blacks’ recent experience against a weakened French side has provided an opportunity to test new players, but the upcoming matches against the Pumas and Springboks promise to be much more demanding. The next four tests are critical, not only for the team’s performance but also for public perception of Robertson’s approach as head coach.

The All Blacks’ Rugby Championship squad comprises:

Hookers: Codie Taylor, Samisoni Taukei’aho, Brodie McAlister
Props: Ethan de Groot, Tamaiti Williams, Ollie Norris, Tyrel Lomax, Fletcher Newell, Pasilio Tosi
Locks: Scott Barrett, Patrick Tuipulotu, Tupou Vaa’i, Fabian Holland
Loose forwards: Samipeni Finau, Simon Parker, Ardie Savea, Du’Plessis Kirifi, Wallace Sititi, Peter Lakai, Luke Jacobson
Halfbacks: Cortez Ratima, Cameron Roigard, Noah Hotham
First-five eighths: Beauden Barrett, Damian McKenzie
Midfielders: Anton Lienert-Brown, Jordie Barrett, Quinn Tupaea, Billy Proctor, Timoci Tavatavanawai
Outside backs: Rieko Ioane, Caleb Clarke, Sevu Reece, Emoni Narawa, Will Jordan, Ruben Love
Injury cover: George Bower, Tevita Mafileo, Josh Lord, Finlay Christie, Kyle Preston, Leroy Carter

As the All Blacks prepare for this significant phase of the season, the focus will be on integrating new talent while maintaining competitive momentum.