The All Blacks drop Billy Proctor from their four-test series against South Africa after he fractures his shoulder, with playmaker Richie Mo’unga called up in his place. Multiple reports say the change happens ahead of the series, as Proctor is sidelined by the injury.
Both outlets frame the recall as a like-for-like response aimed at maintaining backline control. Japan Today highlights that Mo’unga is brought in after Proctor is ruled out Thursday, while IOL stresses Mo’unga’s experience and game-management qualities. IOL also underscores Mo’unga’s “big-match pedigree,” noting his 56 caps. Across the reporting, the key focus is the timing of Proctor’s injury-related withdrawal and Mo’unga’s selection to cover for the absence.
