All Blacks playmaker Richie Mo’unga has taken a major step toward reigniting his Test career – and a potential shot at the Springboks in 2027 – by signing a new deal to return to New Zealand.

The 56-Test flyhalf has committed to an 18-month contract with the Crusaders from mid-2026, putting him in line for a recall ahead of the next Rugby World Cup in Australia.

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Mo’unga left New Zealand after the 2023 global showpiece in France to join Toshiba Brave Lupus in Japan, and has been ineligible for All Blacks selection since. However, under current rules, he will be eligible again from October 2026 – less than a year out from the next World Cup.

The move reopens the door for the 31-year-old to add to his Test tally and rejoin the Springboks’ fiercest rivals in time for another crack at the world champions.

“We’re really pleased to have Richie re-committing to New Zealand Rugby, the Crusaders and Canterbury,” said NZR chief executive Mark Robinson.

“His experience and leadership will be a tremendous asset.”

Mo’unga was a central figure in the Crusaders’ Super Rugby dynasty, winning seven titles and consistently delivering on the big stage. He started both pool matches against the Boks in 2019 and 2023 and could now be part of a blockbuster rematch in 2027.

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All Blacks coach Scott Robertson, who worked with Mo’unga during the Crusaders’ golden era, has been vocal about relaxing eligibility rules for overseas-based players. Whether that shift happens before 2027 remains to be seen, but Mo’unga’s decision to return on NZR’s terms keeps him firmly in the frame.

Rugby Australia recently announced a change in selection policy allowing Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt to pick overseas-based players, adding more fuel to the trans-Tasman rivalry ahead of the Rugby Championship.

© Agence France-Presse

Photo: Lionel Hahn/Getty Images

Welcome home, Richie 🤝

Mo’unga has signed with NZR, Crusaders and Canterbury from July 2026 until the end of 2027. Richie will be eligible for All Blacks selection from October 2026. pic.twitter.com/RJkvY6lFJD

— All Blacks (@AllBlacks) August 7, 2025