New Zealand head coach Scott Robertson has named his first All Blacks squad, with the match day 23 confirmed to face England this Saturday. England and the All Blacks are set to clash in Dunedin’s Forsyth Barr Stadium, with the home of the Highlanders set to host a blockbuster first Test of the two-match series.
There is a few stand out selections from Robertson, with the back-line especially noteworthy heading into Saturday’s game. The All Blacks coach has awarded TJ Perenara the starting spot at scrum half, in what is the nine’s first match for New Zealand since the 2022 draw against England at Twickenham.
Also, Robertson has recalled Sevu Reece to the All Blacks starting XV, with the Crusaders wing back from a lengthy injury lay-off. Finally, there is no space in the starting line-up for New Zealand talisman Beauden Barrett, who takes the number 23 shirt amongst the replacements. Razor Robertson has opted for Blues fullback Stephen Perofeta to start in the 15 jersey, with Chiefs linchpin Damian McKenzie the first choice fly half.
Robertson has selected his former Crusaders lock Scott Barrett to captain the side, with the second row taking over the All Blacks leadership for the unavailable Sam Cane.
ALL BLACKS TEAM TO FACE ENGLAND – 2024 SUMMER SERIES TEST
1. Ethan de Groot (22)
2. Codie Taylor (85)
3. Tyrel Lomax (32)
4. Scott Barrett (69) (Captain)
5. Patrick Tuipulotu (43)
6. Samipeni Finau (1)
7. Dalton Papali’i (32)
8. Ardie Savea (81) (Vice-captain)
9. T.J. Perenara (80)
10. Damian McKenzie (47)
11. Mark Tele’a (9)
12. Jordie Barrett (57) (Vice-captain)
13. Rieko Ioane (67)
14. Sevu Reece (23)
15. Stephen Perofeta (3)
REPLACEMENTS
16. Asafo Aumua (6)
17. Ofa Tu’ungafasi (57)
18. Fletcher Newell (13)
19. Tupou Vaa’i (25)
20. Luke Jacobson (18)
21. Finlay Christie (21)
22. Anton Lienert-Brown (70)
(X) – Donotes Test caps for the All Blacks