Fijian winger Sevu Reece is set to make his return for the All Blacks in an important match against France in Paris tomorrow morning. Reece steps in to replace the injured Mark Tele’a on the right wing.
All Blacks coach Scott Robertson has also chosen Beauden Barrett over Damian McKenzie for the fly-half position. Barrett, who missed last week’s victory over Ireland due to a head injury sustained in the match against England on November 2, will don the number 10 shirt, contributing to a total of five changes in the squad.
In addition to Barrett’s return, the All Blacks will see scrum-half Cam Roigard, flanker Samipeni Finau, and hooker Codie Taylor stepping into the lineup. This match is particularly significant as New Zealand aims for their first victory over France since 2018.
Patrick Tuipulotu, an experienced lock, is poised to achieve his 50th cap off the bench, marking a decade since his Test debut.
The match is scheduled to kick off at 8:10 AM (Fiji Time).
The All Blacks lineup is as follows: Will Jordan; Sevu Reece, Rieko Ioane, Jordie Barrett, Caleb Clarke; Beauden Barrett, Cam Roigard; Wallace Sititi, Ardie Savea, Samipeni Finau; Tupou Vaa’i, Scott Barrett; Tyrel Lomax, Codie Taylor, Tamaiti Williams.
Replacements include Asafo Aumua, Ofa Tu’ungafasi, Pasilio Tosi, Patrick Tuipulotu, Peter Lakai, Cortez Ratima, Anton Lienert-Brown, and Damian McKenzie.
This matchup presents a great opportunity for the All Blacks to not only adjust their lineup for injuries but to regain momentum against a formidable opponent. With experienced players like Barrett and Tuipulotu back in action, there is potential for an exciting game.
Leave a comment