The comeback of Sam Cane in the No 7 jersey for the All Blacks is shaping up to be one of the most compelling rugby narratives of the year. All Blacks coach Scott Robertson has announced three changes to the matchday squad for the Rugby Championship clash against the Springboks in Johannesburg on Sunday morning (NZT). Cane will step in at 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 included in the reserves to add depth in what is anticipated to be a fiercely contested match at Ellis Park, where approximately 62,000 fans are expected to attend. The backline will remain unchanged from previous fixtures.
Cane’s only appearance for the All Blacks this year was as a substitute during a win against Argentina in Auckland two weeks ago. His last start in the No 7 jersey was during the World Cup final against the Springboks in Paris last October, which became a low point in his career. A red card for a high tackle on Springbok Jesse Kriel meant he had to watch from the sidelines as New Zealand lost narrowly 12-11.
Despite Scott Barrett now taking on the captaincy, Cane has remained integral to the team’s preparations for facing the Springboks on their home ground. The seasoned flanker has had a challenging year, having undergone back surgery in March, which limited his time on the field for his Japanese club, Suntory Sungoliath, with his last appearance there coming in January.
Since his return to New Zealand, Cane has made a few appearances for his club in Bay of Plenty, as well as participating in pre-season matches for his province. The upcoming test against the Springboks will mark his 97th cap for the All Blacks, making it a significant occasion as Robertson faces one of the toughest challenges of his coaching tenure.
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 include Asafo Aumua, Ofa Tu’ungafasi, Fletcher Newell, Sam Darry, Samipeni Finau, Cortez Ratima, Anton Lienert-Brown, and Mark Tele’a.