All Blacks Announce Sweeping Changes for Wales Clash, Aim to Salvage Northern Tour
The All Blacks will field a dramatically reshaped lineup against Wales in Cardiff, with only loose forward Simon Parker retaining his place from the team’s defeat to England. Head coach Scott Robertson has made 13 changes to the starting XV, signaling a clear intent to refresh the squad for the final Test of the year and after their Grand slam aspirations were dashed.
The extensive overhaul reflects a desire to evaluate depth and end the tour on a high note, according to team officials. Will Jordan will feature in the starting lineup, but will shift from fullback to right wing as Robertson reshuffles his deck. The entire reserves bench has also been completely revamped.
New Faces and Familiar leaders
Damian McKenzie will take the reins at No. 10, while Ruben Love is set to earn his second start and fifth cap in the No. 15 jersey. Fabian Holland has recovered from a recent illness and will partner with captain Scott Barrett in the second row. Parker will be joined in the loose forwards by Du’Plessis Kirifi and Wallace Sititi.
Unfortunately, the team will be without Peter Lakai, who has been ruled out due to a calf injury. The front row will also see a meaningful change, with Tamaiti williams starting at prop.
Robertson emphasized the team’s focus on finishing the tour strongly. “We have a lot to play for this weekend – we want to put on a performance that reflects the effort and pride we have put in, and that is a fitting farewell to Jason, Robbo and Coops [assistant coach Jason Holland, NZR CEO Mark Robinson and NZR president Matthew Cooper],” he stated.
Notably, strike coach jason Holland will not be seeking a contract renewal. Robertson also acknowledged the challenge posed by Wales,stating,”We do not underestimate the passion and resolve that Wales will bring and we know how organised,accurate and ruthless we need to be in return.”
Match day 23
Here is the full All Blacks match-day 23 to face Wales:
- Tamaiti Williams (26)
- Samisoni Taukei’aho (42)
- Pasilio tosi (15)
- Scott Barrett (88) (Captain)
- Fabian Holland (11)
- Simon Parker (7)
- Du’Plessis Kirifi (7)
- Wallace Sititi (18)
- Cortez ratima (20)
- Damian McKenzie (73)
- Caleb Clarke (32)
- Anton Lienert-Brown (87)
- Rieko Ioane (87)
- Will jordan (53)
- Ruben Love (4)
Reserves:
- George Bell (3)
- Fletcher Newell (34)
- George Bower (24)
- Josh Lord (11)
- Christian Lio-Willie (3)
- Finlay Christie (27)
- Leicester Fainga’anuku (11)
- Sevu Reece (36)
Unavailable Players
The following players are unavailable for selection: Peter Lakai (calf), Tevita Mafileo (rib), Luke Jacobson (concussion), Samipeni Finau (family illness), and Jordie Barrett (high ankle).
Wales, who have secured only two Test victories this year – both against Japan – have not defeated New zealand as 1953. The All Blacks have suffered three Test losses this year, the most recent against England, effectively ending their pursuit of a Grand Slam. A win against Wales would secure a 10-3 record for 2024.
