Fiji-born winger Sevu Reece will take to the field for the All Blacks against Japan on Saturday, starting on the left wing. This match holds significance for veteran Patrick Tuipulotu, who will captain the All Blacks for the first time in his international career. Alongside him, Peter Lakai and Ruben Love are poised to make their debuts, having been named in the reserves.
In the front row, Tamaiti Williams, Asafo Aumua, and Pasilio Tosi will lead the charge, while the locks will consist of Sam Darry and Tuipulotu. On the flanks, Samipeni Finau and Vice Captain Sam Cane will bolster the team, with Wallace Sititi playing at number 8.
In a notable shift, Cam Roigard will make his first start as the number 9, and Damien McKenzie will take the flyhalf position. Mark Tele’a will join Reece on the wings, while the midfield will feature Anton Lienert-Brown and Billy Proctor, with Stephen Perofeta rounding out the lineup at fullback.
For the reserves, forwards George Bell, Ofa Tu’ungafasi, Fletcher Newell, Josh Lord, and Lakai will be on standby, while the backline will be supported by TJ Perenara, David Havili, and Love. The match is set to kick off at 5:50 PM at Nissan Stadium in Yokohama.