Fijian winger Sevu Reece is set to make his return for the All Blacks during their highly anticipated match against France in Paris. He steps in for the injured Mark Tele’a on the right wing.
Head coach Scott Robertson has made some strategic changes, opting for Beauden Barrett over Damian McKenzie at the fly-half position. Barrett, a two-time World Rugby Player of the Year, returns after missing the previous game against Ireland due to a head injury sustained in a previous match against England.
In addition to Barrett, three other players will join the starting lineup: scrum-half Cam Roigard, flanker Samipeni Finau, and hooker Codie Taylor. These changes reflect New Zealand’s aim for their first victory over France since 2018.
Notably, experienced lock Patrick Tuipulotu is on the brink of earning his 50th cap, marking a decade since his Test debut. The match is scheduled to kick off at 8:10 AM Fiji Time.
Overall, this reshaped lineup signals New Zealand’s determination to reclaim their stature against formidable opponents, which can foster a renewed sense of excitement and hope for fans.
The All Blacks’ roster includes:
– **Starting XV**: 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**: Asafo Aumua, Ofa Tu’ungafasi, Pasilio Tosi, Patrick Tuipulotu, Peter Lakai, Cortez Ratima, Anton Lienert-Brown, Damian McKenzie.
As fans eagerly await the match, there is optimism for a thrilling contest and a potential turning point for the All Blacks against their rivals.
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