The return of Sam Cane to the All Blacks in the No 7 jersey is shaping up to be one of the standout rugby narratives of the year. All Blacks coach Scott Robertson has announced three changes to the match-day 23 for the Rugby Championship test against the Springboks in Johannesburg this Sunday morning (NZT), with Cane stepping in as openside flanker, replacing Dalton Papali’i, who is sidelined due to a thumb injury.
In addition to Cane’s return, loose forward Samipeni Finau has been added to the reserves to increase impact in what is anticipated to be a physically demanding match against the Springboks in front of around 62,000 spectators at Ellis Park. The backline will maintain its original lineup.
Cane’s only appearance in the black jersey this year came as a substitute in the victory over Argentina in Auckland nearly two weeks ago. His last time donning the All Blacks No 7 jersey was during the World Cup final against the Springboks in Paris last October, a day that marked a low point in his career after he received a red card for a high tackle on Jesse Kriel in the first half, forcing him to watch as the Springboks narrowly won 12-11.
While Scott Barrett has taken over as captain, Cane has been instrumental in preparing the team to face the Springboks on their home turf. This year, Cane has faced challenges due to a serious back injury that required surgery in March, which limited his participation with Japan’s Suntory Sungoliath, where he last played in January.
Since returning to New Zealand, Cane has made a few appearances for his club in Bay of Plenty and participated in pre-season matches for his province. The upcoming match against the Springboks will mark Cane’s 97th test for the All Blacks.
This test is poised to be one of the toughest challenges of Scott Robertson’s coaching tenure.
All Blacks: Beauden Barrett, Will Jordan, Rieko Ioane, Jordie Barrett, Caleb Clarke, Damian McKenzie, TJ Perenara, Ardie Savea, Sam Cane, Ethan Blackadder, Tupou Vaa’i, Scott Barrett (captain), Tyrel Lomax, Codie Taylor, Tamaiti Williams.
Reserves: Asafo Aumua, Ofa Tu’ungafasi, Fletcher Newell, Sam Darry, Samipeni Finau, Cortez Ratima, Anton Lienert-Brown, Mark Tele’a.