‘Big part of my motivation’: TJ Perenara eager for All Blacks return

After enduring a challenging period on the sidelines due to an Achilles injury, veteran halfback TJ Perenara, who boasts 80 Test appearances, is setting his sights on a comeback to the highest echelon of rugby with the All Blacks under the guidance of new coach Scott Robertson.

Perenara, aged 31, sat out the entire Super Rugby Pacific season with the Hurricanes this year after rupturing his Achilles during national duty with the All Blacks over a year ago at England’s Twickenham Stadium. The injury, sustained almost at the conclusion of the match, posed a significant threat to his international career.

Undeterred, Perenara is determined to make a resurgence. Having committed to an additional two years with the Hurricanes and New Zealand Rugby, the Rugby World Cup winner expressed his aspiration to don the black jersey once again.

Speaking to reporters last week, Perenara emphasized the intrinsic motivation of playing rugby in New Zealand – aspiring to be an All Black and participating at the highest level while representing the team he grew up admiring.

While Perenara was sidelined, young talent Cam Roigard stepped into the formidable role with the Hurricanes and impressed, earning a debut for the All Blacks. Roigard, 23, is widely regarded as the front-runner for the No. 9 jersey at the Hurricanes and was part of New Zealand’s squad for the recent Rugby World Cup.

Despite the competition, Perenara sees the potential for a formidable partnership with Roigard in 2024. With experienced scrum-halves Aaron Smith and Brad Weber departing, there appears to be an opportunity for both Perenara and Roigard to stake their claims for All Blacks selection next year.

Perenara outlined his approach to goal-setting, starting with broad objectives for the year and gradually refining them into short-term goals. His immediate focus is on returning to full team training and adapting his goals accordingly.

Acknowledging the requirements to be an All Black, Perenara stressed the importance of playing excellent rugby, making an impact on the field, and contributing to team success. As he works toward his goals, he remains driven by the excitement and honor of being part of the pinnacle of the rugby world.