Fiji’s Sevu Reece will make his return to the All Blacks lineup for the highly anticipated match against France in Paris tomorrow morning, stepping in to replace the injured Mark Tele’a on the right wing.
In a significant tactical move, Coach Scott Robertson has chosen two-time World Rugby Player of the Year Beauden Barrett over Damian McKenzie to take on the fly-half position. Barrett, who missed the previous match against Ireland due to a head injury sustained during the game against England, is expected to make a substantial impact in the number 10 jersey.
Robertson has implemented a total of five changes to the squad as New Zealand looks to secure their first victory over France since 2018. These changes also include the introduction of scrum-half Cam Roigard, flanker Samipeni Finau, and hooker Codie Taylor.
A notable milestone is on the horizon for seasoned lock Patrick Tuipulotu, who is set to earn 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 and promises to be an exciting encounter.
The All Blacks’ lineup features:
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, and Tamaiti Williams.
Replacement players include Asafo Aumua, Ofa Tu’ungafasi, Pasilio Tosi, Patrick Tuipulotu, Peter Lakai, Cortez Ratima, Anton Lienert-Brown, and Damian McKenzie.
This match presents an opportunity for the All Blacks to leverage their revamped lineup and break a lengthy drought against a formidable French side. Fans can look forward to a thrilling display of skill and strategy as both teams vie for an important victory.
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