Reece back into ABs starting XV, Bower to make long-awaited return

Fiji-born All Blacks star winger Sevu Reece has forced his way back into the All Blacks’ starting XV that will take on France in their final test this weekend in Hamilton.

The 28-year-old was ruled out of the second test after failing his Head Injury Assessment (HIA) test following a concussion he suffered in the first minute of their first test in Dunedin.

Reece will start on the right wing, replacing his fellow countryman Emoni Narawa, who was called in to the starting lineup last week as an injury cover.

Rising star outside back Timoci Tavatavanawai has retained his place in the matchday 23 squad after making his debut last weekend.

Meanwhile, Crusaders prop George Bower will also be making his long-awaited return for the All Blacks after a lapse of nearly 3 years, as he is named on the bench.

Ethan De Groot, Samisoni Taukei’aho and Tyrel Lomax will start in the front row, Patrick Tuipolotu and Fabian Holland will pair up in the locks, Samipeni Finau and Ardie Savea will be on the flanks, and Luke Jacobson will be at number 8.

Cortez Ratima will start at halfback, Damian McKenzie will start at flyhalf, Rieko Ioane and Reece will be on the wings, Quinn Tupaea will partner Anton Lienert-Brown in the centres, and Ruben Love will start at fullback.

The impact players are Brodie McAlister, George Bower, Fletcher Newell, Dalton Papali’i, Duplesis Kirifi, Noah Hotham, Tavatavanawai and Will Jordan.

The All Blacks will take on France at 7.05pm this Saturday in Waikato.