All Blacks coach Ian Foster has gone with experience when picking his side for Saturday’s test against the Springboks with Tamaiti Williams set to make his debut from the bench.
Foster says any Test against South Africa is a special occasion.
He further says there is a lot of respect between the two nations and that usually translates to an epic battle on the field.
The All Blacks coach adds it has been four years since they last played South Africa in New Zealand so that also makes it special.
Foster has named seasoned campaigner Brodie Retallick in the locks to partner with Scott Barrett with skipper Sam Cane on the flanks with Ardie Savea at Number 8.
Aaron Smith is at halfback with Damian McKenzie missing from the squad being replaced by Richie Mo’unga at fly-half with Mark Telea and Will Jordan making a return from injury to man the wings.
Jordie and Rieko seem to be the in form centres that Foster is going with while Beauden Barrett drops to fullback.
The All Blacks host the Springboks 7.05pm Saturday at Mt Smart Stadium while the Wallabies will play the Pumas at 9.45pm.
All Blacks side to play the Springboks:
Ethan de Groot, Codie Taylor, Tyrel Lomax, Brodie Retallick, Scott Barrett, Shannon Frizell, Sam Cane, Ardie Savea, Aaron Smith, Richie Mo’unga, Mark Telea, Jordie Barrett, Rieko Ioane, Will Jordan, Beauden Barrett.
Impact players: Samisoni Taukei’aho, Tamaiti Williams, Nepo Laulala, Tupou Vaa’i, Dalton Papali’i, Finlay Christie, Braydon Ennor, Caleb Clarke.
[Source: allblacks.com]
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