Just when the All Blacks needed it most, their scrum-half woes have taken a turn for the better, with Cam Roigard set to lace up his boots this coming weekend. After a stress fracture sidelined him post the France series, Roigard’s return couldn’t have been better timed as the Bledisloe Cup looms large.
Roigard, a pivotal figure in the All Blacks setup, has been greenlit by coach Scott Robertson to play in the National Provincial Championship (NPC) for Counties Manukau against Auckland. This match-up in Pukekohe isn’t just another game; it’s Roigard’s proving ground before possibly rejoining the All Blacks for their critical face-off with the Wallabies at Eden Park on September 27.
The 24-year-old's comeback is a breath of fresh air for a team still reeling from the loss of Noah Hotham, who was taken out by a hefty collision during the recent drubbing by the Springboks. Hotham’s ankle surgery has left a void, which Roigard is expected to fill, pending his performance this Saturday. Meanwhile, Cortez Ratima remains out with a broken rib, further straining the All Blacks' scrum-half resources.
"I wasn't rushed back," noted Roigard, dispelling concerns over his readiness. "The timing feels right, and I'm eager to contribute again."
This weekend's NPC is set to be a showcase of All Blacks talent with not just Roigard, but also Caleb Clarke and Rieko Ioane taking the field for Auckland. Beyond this trio, more than ten other national team members will feature across various provincial matchups, ensuring that All Blacks fans have plenty to keep an eye on.
From Josh Lord’s inclusion in Taranaki’s lineup against Hawke's Bay to the heavyweight clash featuring George Bower for Otago against Canterbury, the NPC stages are set for fireworks. Waikato’s showdown with Tasman will also be a highlight, boasting names like Anton Lienert-Brown, Luke Jacobson, and Samipeni Finau, with Leicester Fainga’anuku donning the Tasman jersey.
As the NPC action unfolds, all eyes will be on Roigard’s performance, which could dictate the dynamics of the upcoming Bledisloe Cup tests. The All Blacks' depth and resilience are on full display, promising some thrilling rugby ahead.