All Blacks Tap Simon Parker for Rugby Championship Challenge

The All Blacks have included loose forward Simon Parker in their Rugby Championship squad, a significant addition as the team prepares for a challenging series against Argentina. Standing at 1.97 meters and weighing 120 kilograms, Parker’s physical presence is expected to bolster the forward pack, especially after he experienced an injury setback that sidelined him from selection for the series against France.

This marks a pivotal moment for Parker, who had a standout season with the Chiefs, finally showcasing his potential as a Super Rugby player. Coach Scott Robertson seems to view Parker as a crucial piece in addressing the size issue within the loose forwards, which has been a point of concern despite the world-class talents of players like Ardie Savea and Wallace Sititi. The team’s attempts to find a suitable blindside option have included moving Tupou Vaa’i to that position during the recent series against France and providing ample opportunities for Samipeni Finau.

Parker’s comparison to Liam Squire, the last player to fill the blindside role effectively since Jerome Kaino’s departure, highlights the high expectations surrounding him. Both are nearly identical in size, with Parker also being 25 years old. The hope is that Parker can contribute more significantly than Squire, whose international career was cut short after just 23 tests.

As the All Blacks gear up for their upcoming matches, they have named six players as injury cover, with a strong likelihood that one will play a role in the tests against Argentina. Injuries to Cam Roigard and Noah Hotham have left the team needing either Finlay Christie or Kyle Preston to back up starting halfback Cortez Ratima. Ratima’s status as the senior halfback raises questions about the team’s strategy, suggesting a potential shift towards a more forward-focused game plan.

Another notable addition is Leroy Carter, who has excelled for the Chiefs and shown versatility by playing at center for Bay of Plenty. Tevita Mafileo joins the prop rotation after impressing with the Hurricanes, further enhancing the depth of the squad.

The All Blacks face a critical test in Argentina, where they will need to rely on both experience and newfound talent. Beauden Barrett is set to start at first five, with Will Jordan at fullback, ensuring that the backline remains potent and capable of scoring. The return of Scott Barrett at lock adds another layer of depth, as the selectors navigate the balance between emerging talents like Fabian Holland and established players.

The competition for places in the squad is fierce, especially on the wings, where Caleb Clarke and Sevu Reece currently hold the starting positions. However, Carter’s speed could make him a valuable asset, challenging existing incumbents for a spot in the lineup.

The upcoming tests against Argentina and the Springboks will be critical for the All Blacks. The series will not only test the squad’s depth but also shape public opinion on Robertson’s strategies moving forward. The performance in these matches may set the tone for the remainder of the season and the team’s preparations for future competitions.

The All Blacks Rugby Championship squad includes:

– **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 includes George Bower, Tevita Mafileo, Josh Lord, Finlay Christie, Kyle Preston, and Leroy Carter. This diverse squad reflects Robertson’s commitment to building a robust team capable of facing formidable opponents in the upcoming Rugby Championship.