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Another All Black re-signs for 2023 World Cup

Photo by Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images

Blues and All Blacks tighthead prop Nepo Laulala has signed on the dotted line with New Zealand Rugby for the 2023 season.

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The move confirms Laulala’s intent to be a part of the All Blacks roster for the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France.

Exactly where Laulala sits in the All Black tighthead pecking order is a question that The Rugby Championship left unanswered.

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Laulala missed all but the final test of the tournament due to injury after starting in game one of the Ireland series in July.

In his absence, young props Tyrel Lomax and Fletcher Newell have found strong international form and will make competition for playing time fierce should all three make the Northern tour squad, set to be announced Sunday.

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The 30 year old Laulala has 42 tests under his belt as an All Black and is just one game away from bringing up 100 Super Rugby caps, having played for the Crusaders, Chiefs and Blues.

Laulala started in the All Blacks semi-final loss to England at the 2019 Rugby World Cup.

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“Nepo’s been an important part of our squad since he returned home to the Auckland region with his family last year and he’s an invaluable part of our tight-five group,” Blues coach Leon MacDonald said.

“He’s a quiet family man with strong values but is also a strong contributor to our team discussions – we are pleased to have him back with us for 2023.”

New Zealand Rugby general Manager Professional Rugby and Performance Chris Lendrum also expressed excitement about Laulala’s decision.

“Nepo’s built up a wealth of experience in a key position, including 42 Tests for the All Blacks while continuing to perform at a high level in the Bunnings NPC and in Super Rugby Pacific, something he has done consistently for the past decade.

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“He’s played a key role for the Blues over the past two seasons and I’m sure he will continue to do so in 2023.”

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R
RedWarrior 51 minutes ago
Records show All Blacks' greatest rugby adversary is now Ireland

Foster was literally whinging about the TMO in the Ireland series in the presser AFTER the RWC final. NZs whinging about the final itself was apparently picked up by Voyager 2 which was near the asteroid belt. What about the whingefest and crybabies after O'Mahony's legendary sledge (during the match) on Sam Cane?


I often hear talk about NZ players being poisoned or similar nonsense during the 1995 final. NZ boast that they are 'superstars' and 'humble heroes' on their own website. You gave England the same treatment in 2002-2003, calling them arrogant just because they beat you. They told the rest of us then what you were like, we should have listened. I would give as much credence to a NZ supporter disliking us, as I would to Krusty the clown saying the same thing. Let's just say your judgement may not be the best.


Regarding 2016, as the referee had basically let NZ away with cheating their way to victory via filthy dangerous play and fouling he was hardly going to pull Sexton up when clearly trying to stop a grounding. NZ always leave the boot or arm in to hurt a try scorer but that seems to be invisible to you entitles lot.


BTW NZ have literally being whinging and crying about Ireland since Soldier field. You are just very bad losers. We will be delighted to be shot of you on Friday. I hope we do so with a win, so that you rethink your philosophy of mocking opponents and spectators you've just beaten.


After the match last Saturday the internet was full of Kiwi supporters basically abusing English folk. Where is your national honour? Where is your national integrity?

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LONG READ
LONG READ England need to face a few home truths if they are to relearn that winning habit England need to face a few home truths if they are to relearn that winning habit
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