Crusaders named in All Blacks squad for Nations Championship Southern Series

We're proud to announce five players have been named in Dave Rennie’s first squad of 2026 for the Nations Championship Southern Series – and one more joining as injury cover. 

Experienced hooker Codie Taylor is back in black, alongside fellow front rowers George Bower and Fletcher Newell. 

In the backs, Will Jordan’s world-class ability is recognised once more, while halfback Kyle Preston earns further reward after breaking into the All Blacks earlier in his career. 

Lock Jamie Hannah will also link in with the squad as temporary injury cover for Tupou Vaa’i until he is cleared to return to play following concussion protocols. 

The All Blacks squad will assemble for the first time in Auckland from Wednesday this week, before travelling to Christchurch at the end of the week for the first Test of the Nations Championship. 

Nations Championship Southern Series Fixtures: 

Saturday, 4 July 2026: All Blacks vs. France, 7:05pm, One New Zealand Stadium, Christchurch. 

Friday, 10 July 2026: All Blacks vs. Italy, 5:05pm, Sky Stadium, Wellington. 

Saturday, 18 July 2026: All Blacks vs. Ireland, 7:10pm, Eden Park, Auckland.