The commencement of Dave Rennie's era as the head coach of the All Blacks heralded an electrifying start with a narrow 34-32 victory over France in a Nations Championship Test match in Christchurch. This match was a stark contrast to their previous encounter, as France arrived with a robust lineup, setting the stage for a riveting contest.
The match took off at a frenetic pace with France's Damian Penaud scoring within the first minute. The All Blacks quickly responded with Will Jordan's spectacular try, setting the tone for a back-and-forth battle. The first half saw additional tries from Peter Lakai and Cam Roigard, helping New Zealand to a 19-13 lead at the break despite a yellow card incident involving Ruben Love.
The second half mirrored the intensity of the first. Antoine Hastoy's try put France momentarily ahead before Roigard's second try swung the momentum back to New Zealand. The All Blacks managed to maintain their lead with crucial plays, including another try from Jordan and a penalty from Love.
The match culminated in a nail-biting finish as France's Matthieu Jalibert crossed the line in the dying minutes, bringing the scoreline perilously close. However, the All Blacks held on to secure a victory in their first game under Rennie.
"It was a test of character and I'm proud of how the boys dug deep to clinch this win," said Ardie Savea, reflecting on the team's performance.
The teams showcased immense talent and resilience. For New Zealand, the lineup featured Damian McKenzie, Will Jordan, Quinn Tupaea, Jordie Barrett, Caleb Clarke, Ruben Love, Cam Roigard, Ardie Savea (c), Luke Jacobson, Peter Lakai, Sam Darry, Josh Lord, Fletcher Newell, Codie Taylor, and Ethan de Groot. The bench included Asafo Aumua, Xavier Numia, Tyrel Lomax, Jamie Hannah, Wallace Sititi, Cortez Ratima, Billy Proctor, and Fehi Fineanganofo.
France countered with Max Spring, Damian Penaud, Fabien Brau-Boirie, Yoram Moefana, Théo Attissogbé, Matthieu Jalibert, Maxime Lucu (c), Marko Gazzotti, Oscar Jégou, Pierre Bochaton, Tom Staniforth, Hugo Auradou, Demba Bamba, Maxime Lamothe, and Jefferson Poirot. Their replacements were Barnabé Massa, Reda Wardi, Régis Montagne, Mickaël Guillard, Killian Tixeront, Nolan Le Garrec, Antoine Hastoy, and Nicolas Depoortere.
This victory not only kick-starts Rennie's tenure on a high note but also sets a thrilling precedent for the matches to come in the Nations Championship.