The All Blacks selectors have opted for continuity in their starting lineup to face Italy in Wellington, notably excluding 144-Test veteran Beauden Barrett for the second consecutive week. Head coach Dave Rennie confirmed the selection, citing a desire for cohesion as the team builds toward a high-stakes clash against Ireland. The squad includes two potential debutants, Josh Moorby and Anton Segner, among the reserves.
Strategic Rationale for Squad Continuity
Selectors have maintained the core of the side that secured a 34-42 victory over France in Christchurch. According to Dave Rennie, the decision to keep Ruben Love at first-five and Damian McKenzie at fullback reflects a strategic choice to let combinations develop. While many observers anticipated Barrett’s return, the coaching staff prioritized established rhythm over the inclusion of the veteran playmaker, who remains without a listed injury.
Will Jordan scored two tries in the opening match against France, bringing his impressive international tally to 47 tries in just 55 Test matches.
Personnel Changes and Milestone Moments
Despite the focus on consistency, the team sheet features five changes to the starting XV. Tupou Vaa’i returns to the lock position after missing the previous match due to concussion, replacing Josh Lord. In the pack, Wallace Sititi steps in for Peter Lakai at blindside flanker, and Tyrel Lomax joins the front row. Lomax is set to reach a significant career milestone, marking his 50th Test appearance for the All Blacks.
The backline sees Billy Proctor replace Quinn Tupaea at centre, while Leroy Carter takes the No. 11 jersey from Caleb Clarke. The bench has undergone a near-total overhaul, with halfback Cortez Ratima being the only player retained from the previous match-day 23.
Building Momentum for the Irish Test
The upcoming match against Italy serves as a critical window for fine-tuning before the All Blacks face Ireland at Eden Park. Rennie noted that while the team’s attacking shape created opportunities against France, issues with cohesion under pressure and a high penalty count—conceding 32 points—remain primary areas for improvement. Italy, known for their ability to challenge top-tier nations in the Six Nations, represents a formidable test for a side looking to secure an 18th consecutive victory against the Azzurri.
Match-Day 23: New Zealand vs. Italy
- Starters: Ethan de Groot, Codie Taylor, Tyrel Lomax, Sam Darry, Tupou Vaa’i, Wallace Sititi, Luke Jacobson, Ardie Savea (c), Cam Roigard, Ruben Love, Leroy Carter, Jordie Barrett, Billy Proctor, Will Jordan, Damian McKenzie.
- Reserves: Samisoni Taukei’aho, George Bower, Pasilio Tosi, Josh Lord, Anton Segner*, Cortez Ratima, Anton Lienert-Brown, Josh Moorby*.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Beauden Barrett excluded again?
According to team management, the selectors prioritized continuity for the spine of the team. There is no reported injury for the 35-year-old, and his potential return remains a future consideration for the coaching staff.
Who are the new players making their debut?
Josh Moorby and Anton Segner have been named in the reserves and are in line to earn their first caps for the All Blacks.
Why is Tupou Vaa’i returning to the lineup?
Vaa’i returns to the starting lock position after being sidelined by a concussion last week. He is considered the nation’s premier lock during the injury-forced absences of Scott Barrett and Fabian Holland.
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