And as the pair prepare to do the same at Test level, Mo’unga is making no secret of his confidence in his former team-mate as captain.
“This man was born to lead,” Mo’unga told the Herald“I don’t think much will change.
“I know Razor very well and I know the calm he will bring to Scooter (Barrett).
“Scooter has a great team behind him; people like Ardie and Beaudy (his brother Beauden).
“All Scooter has to do as captain is go out and perform well, which he will do.”
Mo’unga would have every right to feel aggrieved at not playing this weekend.
But after signing a contract with Japanese team Toshiba Brave Lupus before Robertson was appointed coach last year, Mo’unga is no longer eligible for national selection.
And while the player made it clear he was happy with the fact he might not be able to add to his 57 Tests, he also told the Herald His “ultimate goal” is to play in the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
For now, though, he’ll have to watch from the sidelines, even as he helps transport fans to Dunedin’s Forsyth Barr Stadium on Saturday in partnership with Export Ultra and the Alternative Commentary Collective.
“I’ve been in touch with Razor, I’ve talked to some of the boys that were at camp,” he continued.
“They’re having fun, they’re really in a good dynamic at the moment.
“I’m really looking forward to seeing them play.”
And as for who will win the first test of the year between the All Blacks and England? Mo’unga has no hesitation in backing his former teammates.
“I see the All Blacks winning. I think it will be very close, but the All Blacks will win by two converted tries.”
Alex Powell is an online sports publisher for the The NZ HeraldHe has been a sports journalist since 2016 and previously worked for Newshub and 1News.
For live commentary of the All Blacks vs England, join Elliott Smith on Newstalk ZB, Gold Sport and iHeartRadio.
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