Dave Rennie on the Hurricanes’ pair of wingers and the four potential debutants
Dave Rennie has named four potential debutants in his first All Blacks squad, featuring three players from the Super Rugby champion Hurricanes team. The squad selection, announced on June 22, 2026, at the Feilding Yellows Rugby Club, includes Blues loose forward Anton Segner alongside Hurricanes trio Xavier Numia, Fehi Fineanganofo, and Josh Moorby.
Who are the new All Blacks call-ups?
The four rookies entering the national setup are defined by their recent performances in the Super Rugby competition. According to Rennie, Anton Segner has been the standout performer for the Blues this season, noted for his high consistency and versatility as a loose forward. The Hurricanes are represented by prop Xavier Numia and the wing pairing of Fehi Fineanganofo and Josh Moorby. Fineanganofo and Moorby made history during the 2026 season by setting a new single-season try-scoring record, with 17 tries each.
Did You Know? Hurricanes wingers Fehi Fineanganofo and Josh Moorby set a new single-season try-scoring record with 17 tries each during their team’s championship-winning campaign.
What are the implications for the new squad members?
While the selection reflects the dominance of the Hurricanes, questions remain regarding the future of Fehi Fineanganofo. Rennie confirmed that although Fineanganofo is contracted to New Zealand Rugby until the end of November, his long-term future remains uncertain. Despite this, the coach emphasized that the winger’s form has been “irresistible,” necessitating his inclusion in the squad. For the other players, the selection marks a significant step in their international careers, with Rennie highlighting the “massive work ethic” and finishing ability shown by the Hurricanes’ wingers throughout the year.
Expert Insight: The selection of this group suggests a focus on current form over long-term tenure. By prioritizing players who have delivered record-breaking statistics in the 2026 season, the coaching staff is signaling a clear intent to reward high-intensity, high-output performances from the Super Rugby championship cycle.
What happens next for the squad?
The new squad members will begin the process of integrating into the national team environment. Rennie noted that the players reacted to their selection in varied ways, with some becoming emotional and others expressing disbelief upon receiving the news. The team is now expected to connect later in the week to begin preparations. For Anton Segner, the transition may involve settling into the openside flanker position, as Rennie identified the role as his most likely spot due to his balanced skill set and ability to win possession.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the four potential debutants in the squad?
The four rookies are Blues loose forward Anton Segner, Hurricanes prop Xavier Numia, and Hurricanes wingers Fehi Fineanganofo and Josh Moorby.
Is Fehi Fineanganofo eligible to play for the All Blacks?
Yes, he remains eligible to play as he is currently contracted to New Zealand Rugby until the end of November 2026.
What position does Rennie intend for Anton Segner?
Rennie stated that Segner’s best position is likely to be at openside, citing his high-quality skill set and ability to steal the ball.
How will the integration of record-breaking Super Rugby talent impact the team’s performance in the upcoming international fixtures?