As the curtains fall on the All Blacks' 2025 international campaign, we dive deep into the performances of Scott Robertson's chosen forwards. This year's squad had its ups and downs, with a standout rookie and some veterans struggling to hit their usual high marks.
Starting with the loose forwards, Ardie Savea once again proved a titan on the field, albeit not clinching any nominations for World Rugby Player or Team of the Year. His omnipresence in the back-row was noted but slightly less dominant than in previous seasons, earning him a solid 8/10. Christian Lio-Willie, a surprise inclusion in two Tests against France, had a mixed season, disappearing during the Rugby Championship and reappearing sporadically, meriting a score of 5. Du’Plessis Kirifi and Samipeni Finau, both rated at 5 and 6 respectively, showed potential but lacked consistency. Wallace Sititi, fighting back from injury, and Peter Lakai, who seized his late opportunities, each scored a 7.
In the engine room, the locks had varied fortunes. Rookie Fabian Holland shone brightly, earning the title of World Rugby Breakthrough Player of the Year with an impressive 8/10. Scott Barrett, struggling under the weight of leadership, and Patrick Tuipulotu, hindered by injuries, each scored a 6. Tupou Vaa’i maintained his form, also scoring an 8, while Josh Lord and Sam Darry, affected by injuries, managed a 6 and 4 respectively.
Turning to the front row, Codie Taylor remained a stalwart for the All Blacks, his expertise in the set-piece unwavering, scoring a 7. Samisoni Taukei’aho excelled off the bench, impressing enough to earn an 8. The props had a challenging year; Fletcher Newell and Pasilio Tosi each scored a 7, showing moments of excellence despite big shoes to fill. Ethan de Groot and George Bower, meanwhile, scored a 6 and 5, showing room for improvement.
"It's been a rollercoaster season, but seeing players like Fabian Holland step up reassures us of our depth and potential moving forward,"
remarked Scott Robertson, reflecting on the mixed performances.
As the All Blacks recalibrate for the upcoming season, the blend of emerging talent and seasoned players adjusting to new roles will be crucial. With some players undoubtedly reaching crossroads in their careers, 2026 promises to be a pivotal year for New Zealand rugby.
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As the curtains fall on the All Blacks' 2025 international campaign, we dive deep into the performances of Scott Robertson's chosen forwards. This year's squad had its ups and downs, with a standout rookie and some veterans struggling to hit their usual high marks.
Starting with the loose forwards, Ardie Savea once again proved a titan on the field, albeit not clinching any nominations for World Rugby Player or Team of the Year. His omnipresence in the back-row was noted but slightly less dominant than in previous seasons, earning him a solid 8/10. Christian Lio-Willie, a surprise inclusion in two Tests against France, had a mixed season, disappearing during the Rugby Championship and reappearing sporadically, meriting a score of 5. Du’Plessis Kirifi and Samipeni Finau, both rated at 5 and 6 respectively, showed potential but lacked consistency. Wallace Sititi, fighting back from injury, and Peter Lakai, who seized his late opportunities, each scored a 7.
In the engine room, the locks had varied fortunes. Rookie Fabian Holland shone brightly, earning the title of World Rugby Breakthrough Player of the Year with an impressive 8/10. Scott Barrett, struggling under the weight of leadership, and Patrick Tuipulotu, hindered by injuries, each scored a 6. Tupou Vaa’i maintained his form, also scoring an 8, while Josh Lord and Sam Darry, affected by injuries, managed a 6 and 4 respectively.
Turning to the front row, Codie Taylor remained a stalwart for the All Blacks, his expertise in the set-piece unwavering, scoring a 7. Samisoni Taukei’aho excelled off the bench, impressing enough to earn an 8. The props had a challenging year; Fletcher Newell and Pasilio Tosi each scored a 7, showing moments of excellence despite big shoes to fill. Ethan de Groot and George Bower, meanwhile, scored a 6 and 5, showing room for improvement.
"It's been a rollercoaster season, but seeing players like Fabian Holland step up reassures us of our depth and potential moving forward,"
remarked Scott Robertson, reflecting on the mixed performances.As the All Blacks recalibrate for the upcoming season, the blend of emerging talent and seasoned players adjusting to new roles will be crucial. With some players undoubtedly reaching crossroads in their careers, 2026 promises to be a pivotal year for New Zealand rugby.