Fiji-born winger Sevu Reece has been rested as Coach Scott Robertson implements four changes to the All Blacks starting lineup ahead of their second Test against Argentina. Former captain Sam Cane is also set to make an appearance from the bench.
In response to last weekend’s surprising 38-30 defeat, Robertson has reshuffled the team, making alterations in three back positions and one in the forward pack for tonight’s match at Auckland’s Eden Park.
Will Jordan, known for his impressive try-scoring ability, takes Reece’s place on the right wing after coming off the bench during the loss in Wellington. On the left wing, Caleb Clarke replaces his Blues teammate Mark Tele’a. In the midfield, experienced centre Rieko Ioane returns in place of Anton Lienert-Brown.
In the forward pack, Tamaiti Williams steps in as loose-head prop for Ethan de Groot, who is sidelined due to a neck injury. De Groot is among several players dealing with injuries, joining captain Scott Barrett (finger), Patrick Tuipulotu (calf), Stephen Perofeta (calf), and Luke Jacobson (hamstring) on the list.
Despite announcing his retirement from international rugby at the end of the year to join the Japanese club Suntory Sungoliath, Cane has been called back to the bench. The 32-year-old veteran last played for the All Blacks as captain in the World Cup final against South Africa in October, where he received a red card due to a high tackle.
The All Blacks have not lost at Eden Park in 30 years, having amassed nearly 50 Test victories at this renowned venue. The match is scheduled to start at 7:05 PM.
New Zealand’s starting lineup is: Beauden Barrett; Will Jordan, Rieko Ioane, Jordie Barrett, Caleb Clarke; Damian McKenzie, TJ Perenara; Ardie Savea (captain), Dalton Papali’i, Ethan Blackadder; Sam Darry, Tupou Vaa’i; Tyrel Lomax, Codie Taylor, Tamaiti Williams.
Replacements include: Asafo Aumua, Ofa Tu’ungafasi, Fletcher Newell, Josh Lord, Sam Cane, Cortez Ratima, Anton Lienert-Brown, Mark Tele’a.