Overview
- Mo’unga said he remains optimistic he could be available for the All Blacks’ extended 2026 tour of South Africa, despite contract terms that bar selection until October 2026.
- He has signed an 18‑month New Zealand Rugby contract beginning mid‑2026 and running through the end of 2027.
- Mo’unga will complete his stint with Toshiba Brave Lupus, then play the 2026 NPC for Canterbury before rejoining the Crusaders in 2027.
- He stressed he does not expect to walk straight into the All Blacks and is prepared to play a full NPC season to earn selection and trust.
- The playmaker has guided Brave Lupus to back‑to‑back League One titles under Todd Blackadder, citing leadership growth as a key development as NZR and Scott Robertson plan toward 2027.