All Blacks Revamp Lineup for France Showdown
New faces and leadership as New Zealand seeks series victory
The All Blacks are gearing up for their second test against France in Wellington with a revamped lineup. A first cap beckons for one player, while injuries necessitate adjustments in the forwards and backline.
Key Changes to the Squad
Following an injury to Scott Barrett, Patrick Tuipulotu steps into the lock position. Ardie Savea will take over the captaincy for this crucial match at Sky Stadium.
Making his first start this year, Caleb Clarke will wear the number 11 jersey, resulting in Rieko Ioane moving to the right wing.
A significant moment for Timoci Tavatavanawai, who is in line to make his All Blacks debut after being named on the bench.
Coach’s Perspective
“Test series are a unique and exciting opportunity. Both teams now have a better idea of what they’re going to get on Saturday night, and both will lift for this next occasion. We know where we need to improve,”
said Scott Robertson.
The coach also expressed excitement for the double-header with the Black Ferns: “It is also awesome to be part of a double-header with the Black Ferns, who will take on Australia at 4:30pm. We’ve enjoyed connecting with the team this week and know they will put on a spectacle for the fans at Sky Stadium, in their last domestic game before the Rugby World Cup.”
All Blacks Team List
The All Blacks match-day 23 is as follows:
- Ethan de Groot (30)
- Codie Taylor (97) (Vice-Captain)
- Fletcher Newell (23)
- Patrick Tuiver (51)
- Fabian Holland (1)
- Tupou Vaa’i (39)
- Ardie Savea (95) (Captain)
- Christian Lio-Willie (1)
- Cam Roigard (11)
- Beaifer Barrett (135)
- Caleb Clarke (29)
- Jordie Barrett (69) (vice captain)
- Billy Proctor (3)
- Rieko Ioane (82)
- Will Jordan (42)
Replacements:
- Samison Inhaps (31)
- Ollie Norris (1)
- Stick Tosi (8)
- Seaper argue (9)
- Du’plessis Kirifi (1)
- Cortez Ratima (12)
- Timoci FallingWai *
- Damian McKenzie (62)
Players unavailable due to injury: Tamaiti Williams (knee), Tyrel Lomax (calf), Wallace Sititi (ankle), Luke Jacobson (concussion), Sevu Reece (concussion), and Scott Barrett (calf).
Match Significance
Victory this weekend would secure the Dave Gallaher Trophy for the All Blacks, marking their first triumph since 2018. The trophy honors the 1905–06 All Black captain, who tragically died in Belgium during World War I.
Last weekend, the All Blacks made history as the first international team to achieve 500 test wins, accomplishing this feat in 652 matches. France holds the second-highest record with 460 wins out of 829 games.
Wellington’s Rugby History
This test match will be the 30th hosted at Sky Stadium since its opening in 2000.
Notably, France has never managed to defeat the All Blacks in Wellington, although they have secured wins in Auckland, Christchurch, and Dunedin. As of June 2024, the All Blacks hold the top spot in the World Rugby rankings, with Ireland in second place World Rugby.
