Hurricanes outside back Josh Moorby got emotional after his All Blacks call-up on 22 June. Josh took a completely different route to the All Blacks than most capped players of his generation.
However, his belief and commitment to putting on the back jersey made his call even more emotional. He finished the 2026 season on a high, winning the Super Rugby Championship as the player with the most tries at 17. In doing so, he became the highest try scorer ever in a season in the Super Rugby. His consistent performances meant that coach Dave Rennie could not ignore him.
WHAT JOSH MOORBY SAID AFTER ALL BLACKS CALL-UP
Speaking to the All Blacks official, Josh Moorby looked emotional as he explained what the call-up means to him and his family.
“As a kiwi kid, you always dream of it,” he said, expressing how much he dreamed of being called up to the All Blacks.
He also revealed that he had not yet told his parents about the video shoot, calling it a well-kept secret. As he continued speaking, Josh’s face grew more emotional; he could not hide the joy deep down in his heart.
Indeed, it’s a new era for the All Blacks, as other fine players were also called up for the first time. Fehi Fineanganofo, Xavier Numia, and Anton Segner also received their first calls, signalling a new direction in the team. Also, the 32-year-old Ardie Savea was named the new All Blacks captain by Dave Rennie, once again signalling a new era in the team.
FANS CELEBRATE WITH JOSH
After the All Blacks shared Josh Moorby’s emotional video reacting to his first All Blacks call-up, fans loved it. They came in numbers, congratulating him and showing some love.
@Momotaro Niwa “The man, the myth, the moorbs 🫡”
@O-Studio Wellington “The O-Studio team are so happy for you, Josh, you totally deserved this – awesome guy! ❤️”
@Ā W H I N A “Congratulations, Josh! Your Mum & Dad would be sooo bloody proud! 🖤”
@Mike Ross “Great decision to cut short the overseas stint to chase the dream! Awesome work for the Canes! Totally deserved call up 🖤💛”
@Melanie Hunter “Awesome work, Josh! Very well deserved 🙌 we can’t wait to see this new chapter unfold for you ❤️”