The All Blacks selectors have named a much-changed team for the third and final test against France in the Lipovitan-D July Series at FMG Stadium in Hamilton, with Hurricanes Ruben Love and Tyrel Lomax both named to start. Du’Plessis Kirifi has been named on the bench and is expected to feature in what would be his third test of the series.
Prop Tyrel Lomax returns from injury, with Ruben Love to earn his second All Blacks cap playing at fullback.
Head Coach Scott Robertson said there was a healthy edge in the camp this week, knowing that the French will throw everything at this final game of the series.
“There is high motivation and focus to perform in Hamilton this week. We are prepared for a determined and spirited French side, and excited to play in front of a passionate, sold-out crowd. We are thrilled to welcome Tyrel, Luke, Anton and Sevu back from injury and, with 185 caps between them, we know that they will be ready to perform at the highest level. It is also exciting to have Brodie debuting, as well as Ruben, Noah and Timoci adding to their single All Blacks cap. These men have earned their place in the team, have trained extremely hard over the last three weeks, and will take their opportunity on Saturday night.”
All Blacks match-day 23 vs France, Saturday 19 July 7:05 PM (NZST)
1. Ethan de Groot (31)
2. Samisoni Taukei’aho (32)
3. Tyrel Lomax (44)
4. Patrick Tuipulotu (54) (Vice-Captain)
5. Fabian Holland (2)
6. Samipeni Finau (10)
7. Ardie Savea (96) (Captain)
8. Luke Jacobson (24)
9. Cortez Ratima (13)
10. Damian McKenzie (63)
11. Rieko Ioane (83)
12. Quinn Tupaea (15)
13. Anton Lienert-Brown (84)
14. Sevu Reece (33)
15. Ruben Love (1)
Reserves
16. Brodie McAlister *
17. George Bower (22)
18. Fletcher Newell (25)
19. Dalton Papali’i (36)
20. Du’Plessis Kirifi (2)
21. Noah Hotham (1)
22. Timoci Tavatavanawai (1)
23. Will Jordan (43)
Unavailable due to injury: Tamaiti Williams (knee); Wallace Sititi (ankle); Scott Barrett (calf); Caleb Clarke (ankle); Tupou Vaa’i (concussion); Beauden Barrett (hand)
