Following a shattering defeat to the Springboks, All Blacks coach Scott Robertson is poised to make strategic adjustments, not sweeping reforms, for the upcoming Bledisloe Cup clash against the Wallabies at Eden Park. Despite the temptation to overhaul the squad, Robertson is known for his measured approach in response to setbacks. Here’s our take on the lineup he’s likely to field.
Starting at the back, Will Jordan is anticipated to reclaim the full-back position, shifting from wing due to Damian McKenzie's struggles with the high ball last match. Jordan’s prowess could be the key to rectifying New Zealand’s aerial game deficiencies. On the wings, with Emoni Narawa still out, speedster Leroy Carter is expected to cover the right, bringing his commendable aerial skills to the forefront.
In the centers, Billy Proctor seems set to continue despite pressures to alter the midfield. Proctor has been solidifying his position and may be facing his final chance to prove his mettle. Alongside him, Jordie Barrett remains a fixture at inside centre, consistently delivering top-tier performances amidst the team's broader struggles.
Caleb Clarke, after another try-scoring outing in the National Provincial Championship, looks to bolster the left wing, bringing his explosive running and robust aerial defense. Fly-half Beauden Barrett, despite a rough outing against South Africa, is expected to lead the squad from the ten spot, with Cam Roigard returning at scrum-half after a successful injury comeback.
The forward pack sees Wallace Sititi at number eight, while Ardie Savea continues to excel at flanker. Tupou Vaa’i is likely to add his hefty presence to the blindside, enhancing the physical edge against a competitive Australian lineup. The engine room will feature Scott Barrett as captain, alongside the resilient Fabian Holland, despite recent criticism.
Front row duties fall to Ethan de Groot, Codie Taylor, and Tyrel Lomax, with Taylor’s return from concussion crucial against an assertive Wallabies' pack.
Replacements will include Samisoni Taukei’aho, Tamaiti Williams, Fletcher Newell, Simon Parker, Du’Plessis Kirifi, Cortez Ratima, Damian McKenzie, and Leicester Fainga’anuku, offering a robust mix of power and versatility off the bench.
"It’s about fine-tuning rather than overhauling. We’ve got the talent; we just need to recalibrate our approach," Robertson remarked, signaling confidence in his selections.
As the All Blacks gear up to redeem their pride, these ‘tweaks’ by Robertson could very well be the formula to reignite their formidable form.
2,193 posts
Following a shattering defeat to the Springboks, All Blacks coach Scott Robertson is poised to make strategic adjustments, not sweeping reforms, for the upcoming Bledisloe Cup clash against the Wallabies at Eden Park. Despite the temptation to overhaul the squad, Robertson is known for his measured approach in response to setbacks. Here’s our take on the lineup he’s likely to field.
Starting at the back, Will Jordan is anticipated to reclaim the full-back position, shifting from wing due to Damian McKenzie's struggles with the high ball last match. Jordan’s prowess could be the key to rectifying New Zealand’s aerial game deficiencies. On the wings, with Emoni Narawa still out, speedster Leroy Carter is expected to cover the right, bringing his commendable aerial skills to the forefront.
In the centers, Billy Proctor seems set to continue despite pressures to alter the midfield. Proctor has been solidifying his position and may be facing his final chance to prove his mettle. Alongside him, Jordie Barrett remains a fixture at inside centre, consistently delivering top-tier performances amidst the team's broader struggles.
Caleb Clarke, after another try-scoring outing in the National Provincial Championship, looks to bolster the left wing, bringing his explosive running and robust aerial defense. Fly-half Beauden Barrett, despite a rough outing against South Africa, is expected to lead the squad from the ten spot, with Cam Roigard returning at scrum-half after a successful injury comeback.
The forward pack sees Wallace Sititi at number eight, while Ardie Savea continues to excel at flanker. Tupou Vaa’i is likely to add his hefty presence to the blindside, enhancing the physical edge against a competitive Australian lineup. The engine room will feature Scott Barrett as captain, alongside the resilient Fabian Holland, despite recent criticism.
Front row duties fall to Ethan de Groot, Codie Taylor, and Tyrel Lomax, with Taylor’s return from concussion crucial against an assertive Wallabies' pack.
Replacements will include Samisoni Taukei’aho, Tamaiti Williams, Fletcher Newell, Simon Parker, Du’Plessis Kirifi, Cortez Ratima, Damian McKenzie, and Leicester Fainga’anuku, offering a robust mix of power and versatility off the bench.
"It’s about fine-tuning rather than overhauling. We’ve got the talent; we just need to recalibrate our approach," Robertson remarked, signaling confidence in his selections.
As the All Blacks gear up to redeem their pride, these ‘tweaks’ by Robertson could very well be the formula to reignite their formidable form.