Ruben Love shock selection, rising star lands first start in All Blacks' bold shake-up for France clash

The All Blacks have announced significant changes to their team for the final test match against France in Hamilton on Saturday. Coach Scott Robertson has made ten changes to the starting lineup from last week's game. Four new players have also been added to the reserves.

Samisoni Taukei'aho will start at hooker, with Tyrel Lomax at tighthead prop. Samipeni Finau will play at blindside flanker, and Luke Jacobson will be at number 8.

Cortez Ratima and Damian McKenzie will be the inside backs. Quinn Tupaea and Anton Lienert-Brown will play in the midfield. Sevu Reece returns on the left wing, and Ruben Love will play fullback.


Brodie McAlister is named as reserve hooker. Noah Hotham, George Bower, and Dalton Papali'i are also on the bench.

The Barrett brothers are not in the squad. Beauden Barrett is out with a hand injury, Scott Barrett has a calf injury, and Jordie Barrett is being rested.

Robertson said: “We are thrilled to welcome Tyrel, Luke, Anton and Sevu back from injury and, with 185 caps between them, we know that they will be ready to perform at the highest level. It is also exciting to have Brodie debuting, as well as Ruben, Noah and Timoci adding to their single All Blacks cap. These men have earned their place in the team, have trained extremely hard over the last three weeks, and will take their opportunity on Saturday night.’’

He also added, “There is high motivation and focus to perform in Hamilton this week. We are prepared for a determined and spirited French side, and excited to play in front of a passionate sold-out crowd."

All Blacks Team:

- Ruben Love, Sevu Reece, Anton Lienert-Brown, Quinn Tupaea, Rieko Ioane, Damian McKenzie, Cortez Ratima, Luke Jacobson, Ardie Savea (capt), Samipeni Finau, Fabian Holland, Patrick Tuipulotu, Tyrel Lomax, Samisoni Taukei'aho, Ethan de Groot.

Reserves:

- Brodie McAlister, George Bower, Fletcher Newell, Dalton Papali'i, Du'Plessis Kirifi, Noah Hotham, Timoci Tavatavanawai, Will Jordan.