All Blacks coach Dave Rennie has named a bold squad for the Nations Championship clash against France in Christchurch, featuring a significant positional shift for captain Ardie Savea and the debut of Xavier Numia and Fehi Fineanganofo. Rennie is prioritizing a blend of youth and experience to counter France’s set-piece and kicking game, according to official team announcements.
Why is Ardie Savea moving to No 8?
Captain Ardie Savea will start at No 8 rather than his traditional openside flank role. This shift opens the No 7 jersey for Luke Jacobson, while Peter Lakai takes the blindside flanker spot. According to the team selection, this reshuffle is part of a broader strategy to optimize the loose trio’s physicality and versatility.
By moving Savea to the back of the scrum, Rennie gains a primary ball-carrier and playmaker in a central position. This allows Jacobson to focus on the breakdown and scavenging roles typically associated with the openside flanker.
Who are the new All Blacks debutants?
Hurricanes prop Xavier Numia and winger Fehi Fineanganofo are set to earn their first Test caps from the bench. Rennie stated that players “forced our hand as selectors through quality Super Rugby performances,” justifying the inclusion of fresh talent in the match-day 23.
The bench is designed for high impact, featuring Asafo Aumua and Tyrel Lomax. This strategy aims to maintain intensity throughout the 80 minutes, specifically to combat the “formidable” nature of the French side, as described by Rennie.
How has the backline been reshuffled?
Damian McKenzie has shifted to fullback, which results in veteran Beauden Barrett being omitted from the squad entirely. The halfback duties will be handled by the pairing of Cam Roigard and Ruben Love.
While the midfield remains stable with Jordie Barrett and Quinn Tupaea in the centres, the shift of McKenzie suggests a desire for more creative playmaking from the back. This move places a premium on McKenzie’s ability to counter-attack and distribute from deep.
Comparison of Key Positional Changes
| Position | Standard Role | Rennie’s Selection |
|---|---|---|
| No 8 | Specialist No 8 | Ardie Savea (c) |
| Fullback | Specialist Fullback | Damian McKenzie |
| Lock Pairing | Experienced Pair | Josh Lord & Sam Darry |
What is the strategy against France?
Rennie has identified France’s strength in the set-piece and their ability to keep the ball alive as primary threats. To counter this, he has selected an “unfamiliar” lock pairing of Josh Lord and Sam Darry, with veteran Patrick Tuipulotu providing cover from the bench.
The goal is to remain “physical, accurate and alert,” according to Rennie. The focus over the last nine days of preparation has been on clarity and connection, which the coach believes will allow the team to express themselves under pressure.
FAQ: All Blacks vs France Selection
Yes, Ardie Savea remains captain but will play at No 8 for the match in Christchurch.
Xavier Numia (prop) and Fehi Fineanganofo (winger) are named on the bench.
The selection of Damian McKenzie at fullback and the Ruben Love/Cam Roigard halfback pairing resulted in Barrett missing out on the match 23.
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