Ardie Savea will miss at least the first game of the Bledisloe Cup tests as he flies home to Wellington for the birth of his third child, which will ensure the All Blacks select a new loose forward combination.
The All Blacks have played Shannon Frizell, Sam Cane and Ardie Savea across the back row for three tests in a row since the second test against South Africa in Johannesburg.
The star Number 8’s absence, along with an injury to Frizell, has presented a rare opportunity for the younger All Blacks players to get some minutes on the international stage.
Sotutu is the only specialised Number 8 in the squad named for the Bledisloe Cup. However, both Akira Ioane and the recently recalled Jacobson have both spent time in the Number 8 jersey at various levels.
Regardless of who makes the starting 15, Savea has left some mighty shoes to fill.
The Wallabies will host the All Blacks next week Thursday at Marvel Stadium.
Source: Rugbypass
