All Blacks midfielder Billy Proctor will return home to New Zealand today after suffering a fractured shoulder blade during the recent clash against the Stormers.
In a major squad shake-up for the ongoing Rugby's Greatest Rivalry tour, selectors have called up star playmaker Richie Mo'unga as his official replacement. Mo'unga is scheduled to land in Johannesburg on Friday to link up with the team.
Head Coach Dave Rennie expressed his disappointment for the injured midfielder while welcoming Mo'unga's experience into the camp.
"We really feel for Billy. He has had a great season, so this is incredibly frustrating for him. It is the harsh reality of our game," Rennie said. "We wish him all the best with his recovery and hope to see him fit and well in time for the end-of-year tour selection."
Turning his attention to the incoming replacement, Rennie noted that Mo'unga's inclusion adds proven quality to the group at a crucial juncture of the tour.
"Richie is the obvious choice as a replacement. His job now is to get in and learn our systems, get his head around the detail, and earn the right to play."