Rugby
1News

'Eventually he'll get a game' – Steve Hansen staying patient over Josh Ioane

July 22, 2019

The young first-five was the only player to not feature against Argentina.

All Blacks coach Steve Hansen is urging patience around young first-five Josh Ioane, the only player not to feature in last weekend's win over Argentina in Buenos Aires.

With Richie Mo'unga left at home along with most of the Super Rugby champion Crusaders, Ioane appeared certain to make his Test debut against the Pumas, however was left on the bench as Beauden Barrett and Ben Smith both played the whole 80 minutes.

To make matters worse, 23-year old Ioane had to watch as Braydon Ennor, Luke Jacobson, Atu Moli and Sevu Reece all earned their first Test caps.

Speaking to media in Wellington tonight, Hansen outlined that fans - and Ioane himself - need to be patient for an opportunity.

"He's getting a lot of learning, and we'll put him out there when we think he's ready to rock and roll," Hansen said.

"It wouldn't have been fair to put him out [against Argentina], lose the Test match and then everyone starts pointing their fingers at a young kid because he's steering the ship.

"We didn't want that to happen, so we didn't put him on.

"I'm sure from what we've seen last week, and what we'll see this week, eventually he'll get a game."

The All Blacks name their side for Saturday's Test with the Springboks on Thursday morning NZT.

SHARE ME

More Stories