Fiji-born All Blacks winger Sevu Reece will be starting against Japan on Saturday, where he will play on the left wing. The match holds particular significance for Blues veteran Patrick Tuipulotu, who has been selected to captain the All Blacks for the first time in his international career. Additionally, Peter Lakai and Ruben Love have been named in the reserves, putting them in line for their debut.
In the front row, Tamaiti Williams, Asafo Aumua, and Pasilio Tosi will take the starting positions. The locks will feature Sam Darry alongside Tuipulotu, while Samipeni Finau and Vice Captain Sam Cane will occupy the flanks, with Wallace Sititi at number 8.
Cam Roigard is making his first start as scrum-half, with Damien McKenzie set to play at flyhalf. Mark Tele’a will join Reece on the wings, while the midfield will include the pairing of Anton Lienert-Brown and Billy Proctor, with Stephen Perofeta starting at fullback.
The forward reserves will consist of George Bell, Ofa Tu’ungafasi, Fletcher Newell, Josh Lord, and Lakai, while the backline reserves will include TJ Perenara, David Havili, and Love. The match is scheduled to kick off at 5:50 PM at Nissan Stadium in Yokohama.