‘Extremely quick’ wing Leroy Carter handed All Blacks debut against Springboks
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Leroy Carter of New Zealand during the 2024 Paris Olympics.
PHOTO: REUTERS
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WELLINGTON – Coach Scott Robertson said on Sept 11 that Leroy Carter can be a “point of difference” on debut, after the explosive wing was named as one of five starting changes to the New Zealand side for the second Rugby Championship Test against South Africa.
Robertson turned to a player he had previously called the fastest in New Zealand rugby for the Sept 13 rematch in Wellington, after winning last week’s clash 24-17 in Auckland.
Fullback Damian McKenzie and scrum-half Noah Hotham are recalled in the backs while front-row forwards Tyrel Lomax and Samisoni Taukei’aho also return for the All Blacks.
Robertson said he had noticed Carter’s ability during his three years representing the All Blacks Sevens team, culminating in an appearance at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
The coach’s interest was piqued when Carter signed his first Super Rugby contract in 2025, scoring nine tries in 15 appearances for the Waikato Chiefs.
“Oh, we knew he was there and as soon as he committed to Super Rugby, we thought ‘here we go’ we’re going to have a look because he’s got a point of difference,” Robertson said.
“He’s extremely quick and we’re excited by his work rate. He competes and now is his time.”
A former electrician before taking up a national sevens contract in 2022, Carter replaces out-of-form Rieko Ioane on the left wing.
The 26-year-old said some of the big tournaments he contested would have him ready to play a maiden Test against the world champions.
“I’ve played in some pretty big matches, the Paris Olympics was a big occasion, so hopefully that’ll help,” he said. “But you know, this is playing for the All Blacks, the nation’s on your shoulders so it’s going to be a new experience altogether.”
Carter is relishing the chance to measure himself against South Africa’s Cheslin Kolbe, one of the world’s elite attacking backs over the past five years.
“Obviously Cheslin came through the sevens as well which is cool and he’s one of the great wingers at the moment. For me that’s just another challenge. I’m just really excited for it, can’t wait,” he added.
Will Jordan starts on the opposite wing, shifting there from fullback to replace the injured Emoni Narawa, while McKenzie moves to No. 15.
Hotham returns from an ankle injury, pushing scrum-half Finlay Christie to the bench.
Hooker Codie Taylor had already been ruled out after a concussion and was replaced by Taukei’aho as expected.
Lomax comes in for Fletcher Newell, with Robertson looking to the experienced tight head prop to bring solidity after the Springboks dominated the scrum in Auckland.
South Africa coach Rassie Erasmus named his team on Sept 8, making seven starting changes including five among the backs.
“There’s a little bit of method behind it all. You know he’s picked those players for their strengths,” Robertson said.
“They can keep the ball in hand and trust their speed, so you prepare for that.” AFP
