All Blacks experiment for first test vs France
- Dave Worsley
- Jul 3
- 1 min read
Updated: Jul 5
A new year and new selections for Scott Robertson's as four players are set to make their debut in Dunedin against France on Saturday.
Lock Fabian Holland and loose forward Christian Lio-Willie are named in the starting side, while prop Ollie Norris and loose forward Du'Plessis Kirifi on the bench
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Beauden Barrett will start at at first five and Billy Proctor at centre. Proctor having earned his way into a starting position after form in Super Rugby.
The backline has a real experimental look with Jordie Barrett at second five, Rieko Ioane on the wing instead of his regular place in the centre,
In the forwards Tupou Vaa'i starts at blindside - his first time at test level in that position since the World Cup.
Fletcher Newell comes in for a start at tighthead and Quinn Tupaea will complete his long journey back to the All Blacks via the bench.
All Blacks: Will Jordan, Sevu Reece, Billy Proctor, Jordie Barrett, Rieko Ioane, Beauden Barrett, Cam Roigard; Christian Lio-Willie, Ardie Savea, Tupou Vaa’i, Fabian Holland, Scott Barrett (capt), Fletcher Newell, Codie Taylor, Ethan de Groot. Reserves: Samisoni Taukei’aho, Ollie Norris, Pasilio Tosi, Samipeni Finau, Du’Plessis Kirifi, Cortez Ratima, Quinn Tupaea, Damian McKenzie.
Unavailable due to injury: Tamaiti Williams (knee); Tyrel Lomax (calf); Wallace Sititi (ankle); Luke Jacobson (concussion); Anton Lienert-Brown (collarbone)
