Christchurch: Love secures number 10 jersey as Rennie names two debutants in first All Blacks side
All Blacks squad announced for France clash
Dave Rennie, the All Blacks head coach, has announced the team set to face France in the Nations Championship this Saturday. The selection includes two potential debutants, Xavier Numia and Fehi Fineanganofo, both named in the 23-man squad. While neither will start, they are expected to make their first appearances off the bench.
The coaching staff, including co-selectors Sir Graham Henry and Neil Barnes, have highlighted that the selections reflect strong performances in Super Rugby Pacific. Rennie emphasized a blend of experience and youth, aiming for a powerful bench to provide impact during the match.
The match against France will be played in Christchurch, marking the first Test match at the city’s new stadium. This will be the All Blacks‘ first game in Christchurch in four years, with their last appearance being against Argentina in 2022. France last played in Christchurch 13 years ago, experiencing a 30-0 loss in 2013. Historically, the All Blacks have won 51 of their 67 encounters with France, with France securing only four victories on New Zealand soil.
Key selections and notable inclusions
Ruben Love has been named to start at first five-eighth, securing the number 10 jersey. This decision follows considerable discussion regarding the fly-half position, with Love’s strong form for the Hurricanes cited as a key factor. He will partner with Cam Roigard in the halves. Damian McKenzie will start at fullback, with Will Jordan on the wing, offering additional playmaking options. Jordie Barrett will feature at second five-eighth, providing another creative presence in the midfield.
The starting loose forward trio sees Captain Ardie Savea at number eight, a shift from his usual seven shirt. Luke Jacobson will wear the seven jersey for the first time in his professional career, with Peter Lakai making his debut at blindside flanker. This combination is considered a bold move by Rennie, aiming to bolster the team’s lineout options and breakdown efficiency. Wallace Sititi will provide cover for the loose forwards from the bench.
In the front row, an experienced trio of Ethan de Groot, Codie Taylor, and Fletcher Newell will lead the pack. They will be supported by Asafo Aumua, Tyrel Lomax, and debutant prop Xavier Numia from the reserves. The locking partnership will be formed by Josh Lord and Sam Darry, with Patrick Tuipulotu offering experience from the bench. Tupou Vaa’i is unavailable for this match due to concussion.
Players overlooked and opportunities ahead
The selection has also meant some notable players have not been included in the match-day 23. Beauden Barrett, a Test centurion, is absent from the squad. While his recent form has been a topic of discussion, his omission is not entirely unexpected given the strong performances of Damian McKenzie and Ruben Love. It is anticipated that Barrett could return to the squad for future matches, potentially against Italy.
Simon Parker, a loose forward, was also overlooked, with Luke Jacobson being preferred for his breakdown work and lineout ability. Similarly, Anton Segner, despite positive reports from the All Blacks camp, was not named in the 23. Wallace Sititi, who has been in strong form, will start from the bench rather than in the starting XV. Cortez Ratima has been given the nod as halfback cover over Kyle Preston, a decision that has surprised some given Preston’s recent performances for the Crusaders.
Pasilio Tosi, a tighthead prop, is unavailable due to a minor injury. His absence has contributed to Fletcher Newell securing a starting spot. The coaching staff expressed confidence in the chosen squad, highlighting the hard work and connection fostered over the past nine days in preparation for the upcoming match.
The All Blacks will kick off against France at 7:05 PM (NZST) on Saturday, 4 July.
Source: planetrugby.com
