Simon Parker is the big inclusion in the All Blacks' Rugby Championship squad, with the 120kg loose forward set to make his test debut in the coming campaign. Parker has been rewarded for an excellent Super Rugby Pacific season, with an untimely injury presumably delaying his call up till after the series win over France.
Parker's ascension is in line with his career path, he was a member of the New Zealand Secondary Schools squad before being selected to the New Zealand Under 20 team in 2019. A Chiefs representative since 2020, he has represented Waikato and most recently the Northland Taniwha in the Bunnings NPC and was a member of the All Blacks XV in 2024.
Crusaders halfback Kyle Preston is in the frame for selection too, named as injury cover alongside Hurricanes prop Tevita Mafileo and Chiefs wing Leroy Carter. Experienced All Blacks Josh Lord, George Bower and Finlay Christie round out the injury cover selections.
Scott Robertson speaks to media on Monday about his All Blacks squad for the Rugby Championship. Photo: Nathan Mckinnon / RNZ
Tamaiti Williams and Wallace Sititi have also returned from injury after missing the French series.
It was confirmed that Tyrel Lomax, Luke Jacobson, Cam Roigard, Noah Hotham and Caleb Clarke will not travel to Argentina for tests against the Pumas while they recover from injury.
"Simon Parker had an impressive Super Rugby season with the Chiefs and brings a valuable skill set and physicality that we are looking forward to working with," said coach Scott Robertson.
Simon Parker. Photo: Aaron Gillions/ActionPress
"He has the ability to play blindside or No. 8 and has gained experience in a number of New Zealand representative teams, so we believe he is ready for the step up.
"While we are clearly disappointed for our men who are currently recovering from injuries, that has also created opportunities for a number of deserving players…these players have earned the opportunity through consistent performance, and we know that they will take this chance. We are excited about what they will bring to the squad."
Scott Robertson said injury recovery has created opportunities for a number of deserving players. Photo: Nathan Mckinnon / RNZ
See how the squad naming unfolded with RNZ's live blog:
