Scott Robertson Names Experienced Lineup For Springboks Clash
Scott Robertson Names Experienced Lineup For Springboks Clash
Scott Robertson bolsters All Blacks ahead of their crucial clash against the Springboks at Ellis Park, as Scott Barrett and Sam Cane return to the lineup.
The All Blacks head coach, Scott Robertson, has injected vital leadership into the starting lineup as they gear up for a high-stakes encounter against South Africa at Ellis Park.
Robertson’s squad, featuring a balance of seasoned veterans and rising talents, faces the formidable Springboks in one of the most anticipated fixtures of the season.
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Captain Scott Barrett returns to lead the team from the second row alongside Tupou Vaa’i. Barrett’s return to the starting XV is timely, as he took over the captaincy from Sam Cane, who has also earned a starting role.
Cane, who was sent off during the Rugby World Cup final, will make his first start since that unfortunate event. His inclusion follows an injury to Dalton Papali’i, giving the veteran flanker a shot at redemption as he joins Ardie Savea and Ethan Blackadder in the loose trio.
This match marks Cane's 97th cap for New Zealand, edging him closer to the century milestone before he retires from international rugby at the end of the 2024 season. His experience will be crucial for the All Blacks as they face a hostile atmosphere in South Africa’s rugby stronghold.
Loosehead prop Tamaiti Williams will make his first professional appearance in South Africa, supported by front-row teammates Codie Taylor and Tyrel Lomax.
Behind the scrum, the backline remains unchanged, with TJ Perenara partnering Damian McKenzie at halfback. Perenara, another veteran set to retire after the season, will be eager to make his mark in his final game on South African soil.
The All Blacks' dynamic back three remains intact, with Beauden Barrett at fullback and Caleb Clarke and Will Jordan on the wings. Rieko Ioane and Jordie Barrett continue their partnership in midfield.
The bench sees only one change, as back-rower Samipeni Finau returns to the squad, joining Asafo Aumua, Ofa Tu’ungafasi, and Anton Lienert-Brown among others.
Robertson is eager for the challenge, stating, “To play South Africa at Ellis Park is one of the greatest tests you can prepare for. We have a lot of respect for the Springboks and are looking forward to an electric atmosphere at an iconic venue.”
All Blacks Matchday 23
*Test caps in brackets
1. Tamaiti Williams (9)
2. Codie Taylor (89)
3. Tyrel Lomax (36)
4. Scott Barrett (72) (Captain)
5. Tupou Vaa’i (30)
6. Ethan Blackadder (13)
7. Sam Cane (96)
8. Ardie Savea (86) (Vice Captain)
9. TJ Perenara (84)
10. Damian McKenzie (52)
11. Caleb Clarke (22)
12. Jordie Barrett (62) (Vice Captain)
13. Rieko Ioane (73)
14. Will Jordan (33)
15. Beauden Barrett (128)
Replacements
16. Asafo Aumua (11)
17. Ofa Tu’ungafasi (61)
18. Fletcher Newell (18)
19. Sam Darry (3)
20. Samipeni Finau (3)
21. Cortez Ratima (4)
22. Anton Lienert-Brown (75)
23. Mark Tele’a (13)
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