All Blacks Ring The Changes As Boks Loom In Wellington Showdown

The All Blacks have shaken things up ahead of their Rugby Championship rematch with the Springboks, naming five changes for Saturday’s clash at a sold-out Sky Stadium in Wellington.

Leroy Carter’s Big Moment

The headline news is the inclusion of Leroy Carter on the left wing. Carter, a former Sevens star with over 100 games in black, will become the All Blacks’ ninth debutant of 2025. He is no stranger to the big stage, having represented New Zealand at the 2022 Commonwealth Games and the 2024 Olympics. For Carter and his family, this Test debut will be nothing short of a landmark moment.

Shifts In The Backline

Will Jordan takes his familiar place on the right wing after stepping in last week at Eden Park, while Damian McKenzie moves to fullback to complete a lethal back three. That adjustment opens space on the bench for Ruben Love, a versatile back looking to add to his two Test caps. Scrumhalf Noah Hotham also makes a timely return from injury, starting alongside Beauden Barrett, with Finlay Christie covering from the bench.

New Faces In The Pack

In the forwards, Samisoni Taukei’aho replaces the concussed Codie Taylor at hooker, with Brodie McAlister named among the replacements. There’s also a reshuffle at prop: Tyrel Lomax comes into the starting XV, with Fletcher Newell shifting to the bench.

Captain Scott Barrett once again leads a powerful pack that includes Ardie Savea, Wallace Sititi, and Simon Parker in the loose trio.

Robertson’s Take On The Clash

Head coach Scott Robertson knows the stakes. After edging the Springboks at Eden Park last weekend, his team faces the challenge of beating them twice in as many weeks.

“It’s an awesome opportunity to face South Africa in front of a sell-out home crowd,” Robertson said. “Every Test has its own storyline and this one will be another passionate battle. Leroy has trained hard and deserves his shot. We’re excited to see what he brings with his speed and skill.”

Why This Match Matters

New Zealand fans are buzzing on social media about Carter’s selection, hailing him as one of the most exciting Sevens converts in recent years. For South African supporters, the talk has been about redemption after the narrow Eden Park defeat, with many expecting a fiery response in Wellington.

With both sides carrying World Cup-winning pedigree and fierce rivalry, Saturday night promises another chapter in one of rugby’s greatest battles. For the All Blacks, it’s about consolidating dominance at home. For the Springboks, it’s about proving they can bounce back and spoil the Kiwi party in their own backyard.

Source:SABC Sport 

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