All Blacks coach Dave Rennie rings changes for first tour match
All Blacks coach Dave Rennie has announced significant lineup changes for the upcoming tour match against the Stormers in South Africa. Patrick Tuipulotu will captain the side, which features several debutants and returning players following recent injuries.
Why it matters
The match represents a high-stakes international rugby fixture and a historic first meeting between the All Blacks and the Stormers.
Prop Siale Lauaki and inside back Josh Jacomb are set to make their debuts for the All Blacks while Patrick Tuipulotu will lead the side in their tour opener in South Africa.
Coach Dave Rennie has made sweeping changes to the side that defeated Ireland last month with Ollie Norris, Fabian Holland, Simon Parker, Ethan Blackadder, Kyle Preston, Beauden Barrett and Rieko Ioane all playing their first match in black of the year.
With Ardie Savea missing the first leg and tour captain Codie Taylor injured, Tuipulotu has been named skipper for Saturday mornings clash with the Stormers.
The All Blacks have opted for plenty of power in the pack, with George Bower, Samisoni Taukei'aho and Pasilio Tosi up front and Holland returning from a long injury lay-off to partner Tuipulotu at lock.
In the loose, Simon Parker returns alongside Peter lakai and Wallace Sititi.
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