All Blacks team v Wales: Winners and losers as Beauden Barrett receives 'extra responsibility' while 'all eyes' on duo
Beauden Barrett has been named captain of the All Blacks for their upcoming Test match against Wales, marking his first time leading the team. The selection comes as coach Dave Rennie rotates the squad, resting several first-choice players following their recent victory over Scotland.
Why it matters
The leadership change and squad rotation are critical developments for the All Blacks as they navigate the Nations Championship and test the depth of their roster.
All Blacks stars Richie Mo'unga (inset) and Beauden Barrett.
Following the announcement of the All Blacks team to take on Wales at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, here are our winners and losers from Dave Rennie’s selections.
After notching an impressive 43-21 victory over Scotland in the opening Test of the Northern Hemisphere leg of their Nations Championship campaign last weekend, Rennie has opted to rest several of his first choice players.
The big news is the appointment of experienced utility back Beauden Barrett as New Zealand ‘s skipper for this encounter and he takes over the captaincy from Codie Taylor who has dropped out of the matchday squad.
Without further ado, we unpack the All Blacks team for this eagerly anticipated clash, picking out our winners and losers.
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