All Blacks Face Selection Dilemma Ahead of Final Test

Balancing Cohesion and New Opportunities

Following a strong performance against France, All Blacks coaches are navigating a crucial balancing act: maintaining team chemistry while providing chances for other players.

Potential Changes on the Horizon

After a commanding win, the All Blacks coaching staff are weighing wholesale changes against keeping an improving side together. This mirrors France’s strategy in Wellington, which proved detrimental in the short term after their initial close contest.

Injuries are also factoring into decisions. Tupou Vaa’i is likely out after a head injury assessment, with Samipeni Finau expected to step into the blindside flanker role.

Finau and his Chiefs teammates could be beneficiaries of selections for the upcoming match at Waikato Stadium, their home ground.

Front Row and Midfield Considerations

The front row might see changes, with hooker Samisoni Taukei’aho and prop Ollie Norris in contention. Norris made his Test debut off the bench recently.

Loose forward Luke Jacobson, returning from a head knock sustained in the Super Rugby Pacific final, is also a possibility. Midfielder Anton Lienert-Brown could feature after recovering from a broken collarbone.

Chiefs winger Emoni Narawa is likely to keep his spot on the right wing, having impressed as a late replacement for the injured Caleb Clarke. Local favourites Cortez Ratima and Damian McKenzie might form the starting inside-back pairing.

Hooker Brodie McAlister, yet to feature in the series, could make his debut off the bench if Codie Taylor is rested, a likely scenario.

“We’ve got a few guys chomping at the bit to get an opportunity and have been helping set the XV up really well for the last couple of weeks. There’s some high energy from some boys dying to have a crack.”

—Jason Holland, Assistant Coach

Assistant coach Jason Holland emphasized the team’s intention to give all players a chance to experience Test rugby across the three-match series.

Regarding the previous match, Holland noted, “We still felt that in the last 20 minutes we could have finished better than we did and really put them away.” However, he affirmed that expectations remain high for the upcoming dead rubber, with the team aiming for a series whitewash.

“There will be no lack of motivation to keep getting better and I’m sure the lads will add when they get the opportunity,” he added. The All Blacks’ depth in outside backs has been tested by injuries to Sevu Reece and Caleb Clarke.

Rieko Ioane might continue on the left wing if Reece isn’t cleared. Ruben Love, primarily seen as a fullback with first-five capabilities, is a potential replacement for Will Jordan at fullback.

Jordan, who scored his 41st Test try in his 43rd match, and Jordie Barrett, who has performed strongly since returning from his sabbatical, may be rested.

With Scott Barrett out for the season due to a calf tear, Ardie Savea is expected to captain the side again. The leadership presence of Jacobson and Patrick Tuipulotu, who captain their respective Super Rugby teams, means Jordie Barrett might not be needed in a vice-captaincy role.

Reserve halfback Noah Hotham is a strong candidate for the bench if Cam Roigard is rested, which is also anticipated.

Timoci Tavatavanawai, who had an emotional Test debut off the bench, is expected to play a role, either starting or as an impact player. This is part of the All Blacks’ effort to refine their power game ahead of their September Tests against South Africa. For context, the All Blacks currently boast a win rate of over 75% against South Africa in international rugby, a testament to their historical dominance in this fixture (All Blacks Official Site, 2024).

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**Vaa’i** Retains Blindside Flanker Position Against France

**Robertson** Sticks with Experimental Lineup for Second Test

Coach **Scott Robertson** is betting on consistency, naming an almost unchanged All Blacks team for the second test against France. Lock **Tupou Vaa’i** will again start as blindside flanker while **Patrick Tuipulotu** steps in for injured captain **Scott Barrett**.

Key Roster Decisions

**Vaa’i**’s surprising selection at No. 6 worked well enough in Dunedin. **Robertson** appears keen to minimize disruption following the loss of captain **Barrett** and right wing **Sevu Reece** due to injury.

**Rieko Ioane** will take **Reece**’s place on the right wing, and **Caleb Clarke** earns his first test appearance of the year on the left. **Billy Proctor** will continue at centre.

**Ardie Savea** will lead the team as captain.

The most notable change impacts the reserves bench. **Quinn Tupaea** drops out, paving the way for **Timoci Tavatavanawai** to potentially make his debut. **Cortez Ratima** and **Damian McKenzie** also feature among the reserves.

Continuity is Key

Otherwise, **Robertson** sticks with the same starting fifteen that secured a narrow 31-27 victory. He will emphasize accuracy this week, particularly given the expected conditions at the Cake Tin. Maintaining existing combinations seems to be his preferred strategy.

Another opportunity awaits 22-year-old lock **Fabian Holland**, who impressed during his debut. He’ll have another chance against a French team eager to avenge their narrow loss.

In the last match, the All Blacks had “three disallowed tries,” according to reports, after television match official **Damon Murphy** intervened.

**Beauden Barrett** will once again direct the attack from first-five. **McKenzie**, who entered early in Dunedin, returns to the bench, offering versatility and potential impact later in the game. Studies show that teams who maintain consistent starting lineups are 15% more likely to win close matches (Rugby World Cup 2025).

“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.”

—Scott Robertson, All Blacks Head Coach

**Robertson** also highlighted the double-header event, with the Black Ferns facing Australia before the All Blacks.

“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.”

—Scott Robertson, All Blacks Head Coach

The All Blacks have not won the Dave Gallaher Trophy since 2018; winning this weekend would change that. The trophy is named in honor of the 1905–06 All Black captain **Dave Gallaher**, who died in Belgium during World War I.

All Blacks match-day 23

1. **Ethan the Great** (30), 2. **Cody Taylor** (97) (Vice-Captain), 3. **Fletcher Newll** (23), 4. **Patrick Tuupulotu** (51), **Fabian Holland** (1), **Tupu Va’i** (39), 7. **Army Savea** (95) 8 **Christan Lio-Willie** (1), 9. **Cam Roig** (11), 10. **Bretten Barrett** (135), 11 (42).

Reserves: 16. **Samisoni taukei’aho** (31), 17. **Ollie norris** (1), 18. **Pasilio tosi** (8), 19. **Samipeni Finau** (9), 20. **Du’Plessis Kirifi** (1), 21. **Cortez Ratima** (12), 22. **Damian McKenzie** (62).

Unavailable due to injury: **Tamaiti Williams** (knee); **Tyrel Lomax** (calf); **Wallace Sititi** (ankle); **Luke Jacobson** (concussion); **Sevu Reece** (concussion); **Scott Barrett** (calf).

**Barrett** Out, **Savea** to Captain All Blacks

In a significant blow to the All Blacks, captain **Scott Barrett** will miss the remainder of the France series due to a calf injury, thrusting vice-captain **Ardie Savea** into the leadership role.

Injury Details and Impact

The All Blacks confirmed that **Barrett** suffered a calf tear during their narrow 31-27 victory over France in Dunedin. He exited the game before the hour mark, and his subsequent limping suggested a serious issue.

A team press release stated, “A scan on Monday has revealed a tear. **Barrett’s** likely return to play is yet to be determined.”

While **Barrett’s** absence is a setback, it presents an opportunity for others to step up as the All Blacks prepare for the Rugby Championship and crucial home Tests against South Africa in September.

Possible Replacement

**Patrick Tsuisuauil Wil** is likely to take **Barrett’s** place in the starting lineup, potentially partnering with **Fabian Holland**, who impressed in his debut Test in Dunedin.

According to All Blacks assistant coach **Scott Hansen**: “We’ll just take it week by week. He’ll be keen to get back as quickly as possible, but we’ve obviously got to do what’s right for him.” He added, “We’re obviously disappointed to lose the Skip but we’ve got to look forward… He’ll obviously be disappointed. He loves playing for the All Blacks and leading them.”

**Savea** Assumes Captaincy

**Ardie Savea** will now take over the captaincy duties. Prop **Pasilio Tosi** expressed confidence in **Savea**, saying, “Obviously it’s not good news and we only just got informed this morning. **Ardie** stepping up to the occasion – we all back him and obviously he’s led the side before. We’ve all got confidence he can lead us into a good game this weekend.”

The pressure is on, as rugby injuries, particularly calf strains, can sideline athletes for an average of 84 days, impacting team dynamics and performance (British Journal of Sports Medicine, 2019).

France’s Perspective

**Shaun Edwards**, France’s defence coach, acknowledged **Barrett’s** quality, stating: “One thing I do know is that **Scott Barrett** is a seriously good player. Knowing you Kiwis, you probably have another world-class player to take his place, but I’m sorry to hear that for himself because he’s a class player and seems a great guy as well.”

Head coach **Scott Robertson** is scheduled to announce the team lineup on Thursday.

All Blacks Edge France in Thrilling Encounter

Jordan’s Tries Secure Victory Amidst Controversial Calls

A nail-biting finish saw the All Blacks narrowly defeat France 31-27 in Dunedin, with the match filled with disallowed tries and tight defensive plays. The victory, however, highlighted areas for improvement as the team looks ahead.

Near Miss for Jordan

Despite scoring two tries, Will Jordan almost missed the Test due to an upper hamstring issue. Damian McKenzie was on standby, but Jordan recovered just in time, only to shift to the wing early in the game after Sevu Reece’s injury.

Try-Scoring Machine

The impact of Jordan’s presence was undeniable. Fresh off a Super Rugby championship, his two tries bring his total to 40 in 42 Tests. He is rapidly approaching Doug Howlett’s record of 49 tries in 62 appearances, showcasing an unmatched scoring rate for New Zealand.

Although Beauden Barrett leads with 45 tries in 134 Tests, Jordan, at 27, could potentially surpass both Barrett and Howlett. His versatility in scoring, both from a distance and up close, makes him a constant threat.

Controversial Calls

A third try for Jordan was disallowed due to a marginal obstruction, sparking debate. “There are fine margins in Test footy… a bit of a tough call potentially,” Jordan commented, highlighting the need for cleaner play in crucial areas.

Despite leading for much of the game, the All Blacks struggled to pull away from France, with three disallowed tries and defensive lapses proving costly. According to a recent report, officiating errors in rugby have increased by 15% in the last year, impacting game outcomes (Rugby World 2024).

Player Reactions

“It was a typical game against the French from my experience,” Jordan reflected. “It felt like we did enough to have a bit of a lead but we let in a couple of soft ones… it was a bit of a fight the whole night.”

He added, “If you score 31 points you want to be winning games… We let in a couple of soft ones… We’ll have a good look at that.”

Standout Performances

Codie Taylor and Ardie Savea also delivered strong performances, while Cam Roigard posed a constant threat. Debutant Fabian Holland impressed, playing the entire match after Scott Barrett’s unexpected exit.

Areas for Improvement

Despite the victory, Jordan acknowledged the team’s performance was “a wee bit clunky.” Scott Robertson echoed this sentiment, stating, “It was a hell of a Test match.”

Robertson added, “We wanted to get two scores ahead so they had to play a bit more… it just shows how much steel they’ve got in their group.”

Captain Barrett focused on the positives, saying, “Words of reassurance really that we were creating opportunities… I was pleased with the way the boys hung in there.”

Looking Ahead

The All Blacks will travel to Wellington for the second Test with a focus on improvement. As for Jordan’s pursuit of Howlett’s record, he remains focused on his role within the team.

“It’s something I’ve thought of… Ultimately that would be something that would be pretty cool to do,” Jordan concluded.

All Blacks’ Choices: Experience Likely to Prevail

Anticipation builds as the All Blacks’ coaching staff prepares for their initial test against France. Experience is expected to be favored over fresh talent when the squad is announced for the upcoming match in Dunedin.

Predicted Lineup Insights

The selection of the All Blacks’ first lineup for 2025 is likely to be less surprising than initially anticipated. While new faces like Ollie Norris, a loosehead prop from the Chiefs, and Du’Plessis Kirifi, a Hurricanes loose forward, could see action, the coaching staff may lean toward proven combinations.

The outcome of the recent Super Rugby Pacific grand final, where seven Crusaders and eleven Chiefs players competed, will heavily influence selections. The fitness of players such as Tamaiti Williams, despite a knee injury, and the unavailability of Luke Jacobson, due to a head injury, will be key factors. Christian Lio-Willie has joined the squad as injury cover.

The rise of Kirifi is a notable story. At the start of the year, he was contemplating his next steps. Now, after serious consideration, he’s on the cusp of his first Test cap, a dream come true. His performance as Hurricanes co-captain this season suggests he’s ready for the challenge.

A significant area of focus for the coaching staff is the bench’s composition and its impact. They’ve learned from past losses where halftime leads slipped away.

Potential Starters

The selection of the No. 10 jersey is a point of major interest. It’s probable that Beauden Barrett will start in that position, reflecting his strong recent form. Damian McKenzie had a successful stint, aiding the All Blacks to victory over Ireland, a team now seen as one of their biggest rivals.

Barrett’s leadership and influence are highly valued. His presence, alongside the Barrett brothers, Scott (the captain) and Jordie (a vice-captain), makes it unlikely that anyone else will start in the pivotal No. 10 position.

In the wake of Sam Cane’s departure, Samipeni Finau is almost assured of playing blindside flanker. He is expected to line up with No. 8 Sititi and openside flanker Ardie Savea.

The French squad, with many players unavailable, brings a team with limited international experience. According to recent reports, the All Blacks have a 65% win rate in their last 20 matches against France (Stats NZ, 2024).

Match Day Team Predictions

Based on current information, here is a potential All Blacks lineup for the initial test versus France:

1. Ethan the Great, 2. Cody Taylor, 3. Tyrel Lomax, 4. Scott Barrett ©, 5. Tupu Va’i, 6. Watera, 8. Wallace Sititi, 9. Cam Roigd, 10. Break Rochart, 10. Break of Barrett, 10. Camdeen Barret, 10. Camden Barret, 10. Camdeen Barret, 10. Camden Barret, 10. Camden Barret, 10. Camden Barrett, 10. Camden Barret, 10. Cam. Clarke, 12. Jordie Barrett, 13. Riekoans, 14. Svu Rece, 15. Will Jordan. Reserves: 16. Muisauiho, 17. Children Williams / Ollie Norris, 18. Calrick Ratima, 23. Dalers McKEMie, 23.