New Zealand coach Scott Robertson has made some surprising choices for his first match-day squad of the season. He picked four players who have never played a Test before and changed up the back row for the opening match of the series against a weakened French side in Dunedin this Saturday.
Fabian Holland, who has not played a Test yet, will start in the second row alongside team captain Scott Barrett. Christian Lio-Willie will also make his Test debut, playing at number eight. This means Ardie Savea, usually in that position, will move to openside flanker.
Tupou Vaa’i, who mostly played as a lock for the Chiefs in this year’s Super Rugby, will wear the number six jersey. He got the spot because of injuries to Wallace Sititi (ankle) and Luke Jacobson (concussion), who are both out.
Two more uncapped players, prop Ollie Norris and flanker Du’Plessis Kirifi, could make their first appearances if they come off the bench. The All Blacks will be trying to end a three-game losing streak against France.
Talking about the new players, Robertson said in a press release on Thursday, “This is a huge moment for these men and their families. We are very happy for them.”
He added, “For Fabian and Christian, it will be even more special to debut in front of the Dunedin crowd. Fabian’s Highlanders fans and Christian’s Otago supporters will definitely be cheering them on.”
“Ollie and Du’Plessis have played really well in Super Rugby this year. We believe they’re ready for this big step,” Robertson said.
Since winger Mark Tele’a wasn’t picked because he chose to play in Japan, Rieko Ioane has moved back to the wing after playing in the midfield for a long time. Billy Proctor, who has played only two Tests, will now wear the number 13 jersey, playing outside of Jordie Barrett at inside centre.
Coach Scott Robertson has kept Beauden Barrett and Cam Roigard as his starting halfbacks. Will Jordan will play at fullback, while Chiefs flyhalf Damian McKenzie will come off the bench as an impact player.
France has yet to announce their team, but they’ve brought a young and inexperienced squad with 17 players who haven’t played a Test match yet. This is their first tour to New Zealand since they lost 3-0 in 2018.
“Playing against France is always something special. They play with energy, creativity, and strength,” Robertson said. “We’re ready for the challenge, and there’s no better place to start than Dunedin, with a full stadium cheering us on.”
FAQ
What does “uncapped players” mean?
“Uncapped players” are those who have never played an official international match for their national team. This will be their first opportunity to represent the All Blacks.
Who are the four uncapped players selected?
The specific names will be officially listed in the All Blacks squad announcement. These players were chosen for their recent performance and potential at the domestic or Super Rugby level.
When is the France Test match scheduled?
The test match against France is set for [insert exact date if known] as part of the All Blacks’ international fixtures for the season.
Why did Coach Scott Robertson pick uncapped players?
Coach Scott Robertson is likely aiming to refresh the squad, test new talent, and build depth ahead of upcoming tournaments like the Rugby Championship and Rugby World Cup cycles.
Is this Scott Robertson’s first match as All Blacks coach?
Yes, this test match marks the beginning of Scott Robertson’s era as head coach of the All Blacks, succeeding Ian Foster.
