In a decisive move within the All Blacks camp, head coach Scott Robertson has handed the captaincy reins back to Ardie Savea, as Scott Barrett steps aside due to injury. The 31-year-old Crusaders lock, who has led the team in 16 Tests under Robertson's leadership, is sidelined with a shoulder injury ahead of a significant Test match at Eden Park.
Robertson, known for his sharp decision-making, is placing his trust in Savea to steer the team through the upcoming clash with the Wallabies. Savea, a seasoned player with 100 caps and previous captaincy experience, is expected to seamlessly transition back into leadership. "He’s slotted straight in, he’s played 100 games and has been captain before," Robertson commented on Savea's appointment.
"Scott Barrett’s shoulder; he hurt it last week and played and finished the game with a shoulder injury. It’s pretty hard not to see his name up there, but he’s not quite right for this weekend. He’ll be pushing to get back for next weekend’s Test,"
explained Robertson.The All Blacks are facing several changes with Barrett’s absence. Fabian Holland will fill Barrett's position while Codie Taylor, Caleb Clarke, and Cam Roigard have been named in the starting lineup. Additionally, Cortez Ratima and Peter Lakai are set to make appearances from the bench.
Robertson expressed confidence in Barrett's resilience and potential quick return to the field: "He did all he could to be available, but he’s not 100%. He landed on it after running down the sideline in the game, he played through with it but it’s clearly not right for this weekend."
In the opposing camp, Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt has also made six changes to his team but retains veteran James Slipper for a landmark game. As the teams gear up for the weekend's showdown, the changes in lineups promise a thrilling encounter.
Teams for this weekend:
All Blacks: Codie Taylor, Caleb Clarke, Cam Roigard, Fabian Holland, Cortez Ratima, Peter Lakai
Wallabies: James Slipper (retains his place for a landmark appearance)