New Zealand has named Wallace Sititi on the bench for Saturday’s clash with England, as the all Blacks aim to complete a clean sweep of their British and Irish tour. The inclusion of the uncapped flanker adds a fresh dimension to the squad as they prepare to face a formidable English side.
This match is pivotal for New Zealand,who have already secured victories against Ireland and Scotland,and are looking to finish their tour with a perfect record. For England, the game represents a chance to halt a recent run of 11 defeats against the All Blacks, despite their own extraordinary winning streak of nine consecutive games. The tour concludes for New Zealand with a final test against Wales on November 22nd.
Scott Robertson, the All Blacks coach, anticipates a challenging encounter. “Recent games against England have been incredibly close-fought, and both teams are coming off a run of wins, so we are expecting an epic clash on Saturday afternoon,” Robertson said. “We will embrace the atmosphere and the occasion.”
Hooker Codie Taylor and open-side flanker Ardie Savea will serve as vice-captains to captain sam Barrett. lock Fabian Holland, who moved to New Zealand after being inspired by a New Zealand Sevens visit to his local club as an 11-year-old, also features in the starting lineup.
New Zealand: Jordan; Carter, Proctor, Tupaea, Fainga’anuku; B Barrett, Roigard, De Groot, Taylor (vc), Newell, S Barrett (c), Holland, Parker, Savea (vc), Lakai
replacements: Taukei’aho, Williams, Tosi, Lord, Sititi, Ratima, Lienert-Brown, McKenzie
