Donald, whose pivotal kick clinched the World Cup final against France, appreciates Love's resilience under pressure. "I reckon Ruben just keeps, for me, getting better every game," Donald expressed during his appearance on the KOKO Show. He noted that although Mo’unga's return to the team adds depth, Love has been exceptional in his role.
“There’s so much talk about it from clowns like us… but he just keeps fronting. From the outside looking in, he is that sort of confident character and he’ll probably just keep rolling out.”
Mo’unga, who had been playing club rugby in Japan, rejoined the All Blacks for their tour in South Africa, making him available for selection in what has been billed as Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry. Despite the competition, Donald sees no need for a change in the starting fly-half position as the team prepares for the third Test.
Reflecting on the All Blacks' performance under head coach Dave Rennie’s leadership, Donald observes a clear shift in tactics compared to his predecessor, Scott Robertson. He highlighted the more dynamic and rapid style of play, emphasizing quick play and utilizing the team's strengths to maintain pressure against opponents.
Rennie's approach contrasts with Robertson's tenure, where play was more structured and perhaps less adaptable to the fluid nature of modern rugby. "They’ve got more of a licence, and it’s not necessarily the structure of the past where different parts of the field mean you got to kick here or what have you. So, loving what they’re doing," Donald commented on the new coaching strategy.
Despite the All Blacks’ loss in Cape Town, where they outscored the Springboks by four tries to three but lost by a seven-point margin, Donald remains optimistic about the team's direction. The physicality and direct play from South Africa in the first half set a challenging pace, yet the All Blacks were competitive until the final whistle.
Donald's recent hike up Table Mountain with fellow rugby legends Richie McCaw and Dan Carter has likely provided him with a fresh perspective, as he returned to support his team in a spectator capacity. His experiences on and off the field continue to inform his views on the evolving strategies of international rugby, particularly under the new guidance of Rennie.
The upcoming Test in Soweto will be a decisive one, with the All Blacks looking to secure a win in the series. Donald’s confidence in both Love’s abilities and Rennie's leadership suggests a vibrant future for New Zealand rugby as they adapt and evolve in the face of stiff competition from world-class teams like the Springboks.
