Sam Cane’s return to the All Blacks’ No. 7 jersey is poised to be one of the standout rugby narratives of the year. Head coach Scott Robertson has announced three changes to the match-day squad ahead of the Rugby Championship test against the Springboks in Johannesburg on Sunday morning (NZT). Cane will step in as openside flanker, taking over from Dalton Papali’i, who is sidelined due to a thumb injury.
Another adjustment sees loose forward Samipeni Finau join the reserves, adding depth for what promises to be a physically demanding match against the Springboks in front of a crowd of approximately 62,000 at Ellis Park. The backline remains the same as previous selections.
Cane made his only appearance in the black jersey this year when he came on as a substitute during the victory over Argentina in Auckland nearly two weeks ago. His last start in the All Blacks No. 7 jersey was during the World Cup final against the Springboks in late October, a match marked by his red card for a high tackle that ultimately led to a heartbreaking 12-11 loss for New Zealand.
Despite Scott Barrett now serving as captain, Cane has played a pivotal role in the team’s preparations to face the Springboks on their home turf. Cane’s participation in rugby has been limited this year due to a serious back injury that required surgery in March, restricting him to only a few appearances with his Japanese club, Suntory Sungoliath, prior to returning to New Zealand for club and pre-season games in Bay of Plenty.
The upcoming match will mark Cane’s 97th test for the All Blacks and is set to test the limits of Robertson’s coaching prowess.
The All Blacks lineup includes: 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.
Reserves consist of: Asafo Aumua, Ofa Tu’ungafasi, Fletcher Newell, Sam Darry, Samipeni Finau, Cortez Ratima, Anton Lienert-Brown, and Mark Tele’a.