Papali'i to lead All Blacks XV vs Barbarians
- Dave Worsley
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
Blues and Counties Manukau loose forward Dalton Papali’i has been selected to captain a strong All Blacks XV against the Barbarians at the start of their three-match European tour in London on Sunday.
Papali’i is one of four capped All Blacks in the match-day 23 named by All Blacks XV coach Jamie Joseph, with experienced utility back David Havili also named to start in the No 12 jersey at GTech Stadium, the home of English Premier League football club Brentford.
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Papali’i (37 tests) and Havili (30 tests) are joined in the squad by two other capped All Blacks in halfback Kyle Preston and versatile back Braydon Ennor, who will provide impact from the reserves.
Papali’i is at openside flanker in a loose trio combination with Devan Flanders and Kaylum Boshier, while Havili forms a midfield combination with Daniel Rona.
The backline has Josh Jacomb at first five-eighth with Etene Nanai-Seturo, Caleb Tangitau and Jacob Ratumatavuki-Kneepkens forming a back three full of attacking intent.
Former New Zealand U20 hooker Jack Taylor wears the black jersey at a senior level for the first time and starts between props Xavier Numia and George Dyer, while Caleb Delany joins the squad to take his place at lock next to Josh Beehre.
All Blacks XV: Jacob Ratumatavuki-Kneepkens, Caleb Tangitau, Daniel Rona, David Havili, Etene Nanai-Seturo, Josh Jacomb, Xavier Roe, Devan Flanders, Dalton Papal’i (c), Kaylum Boshier, Caleb Delany, Josh Beehre, George Dyer, Jack Taylor, Xavier Numia.
Reserves: Bradley Slater, Josh Fusitua, Siale Lauaki, Jamie Hannah, Sean Withy, Kyle Preston, Rivez Reihana, Braydon Ennor.
