Sam Cane’s return 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 his match-day 23 for the Rugby Championship test against the Springboks in Johannesburg on Sunday morning (NZT). Cane will start as openside flanker, stepping in for Dalton Papali’i, who is sidelined due to a thumb injury.
The only other adjustment is in the reserves, where loose forward Samipeni Finau will add depth for what is anticipated to be a physically demanding match against the Springboks in front of about 62,000 spectators at Ellis Park. The backline remains unchanged.
Cane’s only on-field appearance for the All Blacks this year came when he played as a substitute against Argentina in Auckland nearly two weeks ago. His last start in the No. 7 jersey was during the World Cup final against the Springboks in Paris last October, a match he vividly remembers for its challenges. A high tackle on Springboks player Jesse Kriel in the 28th minute led to Cane receiving a red card, leaving him to watch as South Africa edged out a 12-11 victory.
While Scott Barrett has taken over the captaincy, Cane’s experience has been vital in preparing the team for a tough matchup on their rivals’ home turf. The flanker has had limited rugby action this year due to a significant back injury that required surgery in March, which hindered his ability to play for Suntory Sungoliath in Japan, where he last played in January.
After returning to New Zealand, Cane participated in some club matches for Bay of Plenty along with pre-season games for his provincial team. This upcoming test against the Springboks will mark his 97th appearance for the All Blacks. The match is regarded as one of the most challenging in Robertson’s coaching career.
The All Blacks lineup features 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, and Tamaiti Williams. The reserves consist of Asafo Aumua, Ofa Tu’ungafasi, Fletcher Newell, Sam Darry, Samipeni Finau, Cortez Ratima, Anton Lienert-Brown, and Mark Tele’a.