The All Blacks held their first meeting with new management in Auckland last Wednesday, beginning preparations for their initial 2026 Test against France in Christchurch. Head coach Dave Rennie, who recently guided the Kobelco Kobe Steelers to a Japan Rugby League One title, confirmed on Sunday that Will Jordan, Tupou Vaa’i, and Wallace Sititi are all available for selection for the upcoming match.
Rennie addressed media in Christchurch, stating that Jordan and Vaa’i are progressing well and are available. He also expressed confidence in Sititi’s availability after his recovery. The team has had just ten days to prepare for the clash against the 2026 Six Nations champions, France.
Rennie’s coaching approach and player availability
Hooker Codie Taylor discussed the team’s adaptation to Rennie’s coaching style. Taylor noted that Rennie commands attention when he speaks, but in a way that fosters respect rather than intimidation. He emphasised that Rennie’s words clearly convey his expectations for the team on the field.
Taylor highlighted Rennie’s focus on work ethic, particularly off the ball, and the importance of players always seeking opportunities. He added that Rennie expects players to be prepared for any situation, whether with or without the ball, and does not tolerate mediocrity. Rennie himself described his approach as aiming for a simple attacking structure and strong defensive connections, wanting players to be clear and play effectively.
Rennie acknowledged the strength of the French team, noting that 11 players from Bordeaux, the European champions, are part of their squad. He pointed out that France has 28 professional sides, indicating significant depth in their player pool. Rennie anticipates a well-prepared French side, led by coach Fabian Gathie, who will have a strategic plan.
Squad composition and tactical discussions
Former All Blacks loose forward Murray Mexted has suggested that Rennie might deploy Tupou Vaa’i at blindside flanker, despite being listed as a lock. Mexted believes this could address a perceived weakness in the squad regarding lineout and kick-off ball winning.
Vaa’i has previous experience in the back-row, having started eight times in the six jersey during his career, with four of those starts occurring last year under Scott Robertson. However, that strategy was reportedly abandoned after a defeat to Argentina in the Rugby Championship. Vaa’i has since played the entirety of the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season as a lock for the Chiefs.
Mexted expressed concern about the team’s ability to win set-piece ball, particularly in lineouts and kick-offs, suggesting that many players are strong at the breakdown but less effective in the air. He speculated that Rennie might choose Vaa’i at flanker, believing that securing possession is crucial for victory. Mexted’s reservations about Vaa’i as a lock stem from his height, suggesting he might be too short for the highest level in that position.
Mexted prefers taller players like Josh Lord, Sam Darry, and the injured Fabian Holland, who are all over two metres tall, for the second-row. He emphasised the significant difference in height between a player who is 1.97m and one who is 2.04m, asserting that international-level locks need to be genuinely tall. Mexted concluded that Vaa’i’s height and skills, including good lineout abilities and effectiveness on opposition ball, make him more suitable for blindside flanker. The All Blacks are set to face France on Saturday.
Source: rugbypass.com
