New All Blacks head coach Dave Rennie is wasting no time setting expectations. In his first detailed media comments since taking the job, Rennie revealed the team will hold a short pre-season camp in late May/early June 2026 (once he finishes in Japan), with heavy focus on conditioning, alignment, and building a “ruthless” mindset. Meanwhile, Super Rugby Pacific Round 5 delivered big performances from several players likely to be in Rennie’s first squad thoughts for the July home Tests.

All Blacks Head Coach Rennie: Pre-Season Camp Plans

Rennie confirmed the All Blacks will gather for a 10–14 day camp before the France Test (4 July, Christchurch). The camp will prioritize physical readiness and tactical clarity — especially important with only a few weeks before the Nations Championship opener. He reiterated: “We want players who are desperate to wear the jersey and who perform consistently.”

Super Rugby Pacific Round 5: Players Pushing for All Blacks Selection

Round 5 (March 13–14) provided strong viewing for the new coaching staff:

  • Hurricanes 34-19 Western Force: Ruben Love excellent on return, Jordie Barrett captained well.
  • Crusaders 28-24 Highlanders: Tight southern derby, Crusaders edge it late.
  • Reds 38-31 Waratahs: High-scoring Queensland win.
  • Blues 45-17 Fijian Drua: Dominant Blues performance at home.

Standouts catching attention: Ruben Love (fullback cover), Cortez Ratima (halfback depth), Du’Plessis Kirifi (loose forward energy), and several young locks showing physicality — all relevant for Rennie’s first squad.

July Home Series Tickets Now Selling Fast

Tickets for the 2026 July Tests are moving quickly:

  • 4 July vs France – One New Zealand Stadium, Christchurch (7:10pm NZST)
  • 11 July vs Italy – Sky Stadium, Wellington (5:10pm NZST)
  • 18 July vs Ireland – Eden Park, Auckland (TBC)

Pre-sale is live and general sale opens soon — Christchurch opener expected to sell out fastest due to the new stadium. Check availability and official links on our All Blacks 2026 Tickets page.

Stay Updated on All Blacks Under New Leadership

Follow Rennie’s first moves, player news, and Super Rugby highlights in our news section. Full 2026 international schedule → All Blacks 2026 Fixtures.