All Blacks v France: Caleb Clarke Out, Emoni Narawa In for Second Test

The All Blacks have made a last-minute change to their starting lineup ahead of their second test against France, with Caleb Clarke ruled out due to injury. Emoni Narawa has been called into the starting XV, marking a significant moment in his international career.

The 26-year-old winger, Caleb Clarke, suffered a high ankle injury during training on Thursday, forcing the team to make an emergency switch. Clarke was set to make his first test appearance of the year on the left wing, following a series of injuries and tactical adjustments in the backline.

With Clarke out, Emoni Narawa has been given the opportunity to start in his third test cap. The 25-year-old Fijian-born winger, who made his debut in 2023 under former coach Ian Foster, has faced a number of setbacks due to injuries. However, his inclusion in the squad was always a possibility, as he was named as injury cover for Anton Lienert-Brown.

Narawa’s selection comes after both Sevu Reece and Clarke were ruled out due to injuries, forcing a reshuffle in the backline. Rieko Ioane has moved from the right wing to the left, while Narawa takes his place on the wing, marking a pivotal moment in his career.

The All Blacks’ starting XV for the match includes: Ethan de Groot, Codie Taylor, Fletcher Newell, Patrick Tuipulotu, Fabian Holland, Tupou Vaa’i, Ardie Savea (captain), Christian Lio-Willie, Cam Roigard, Beauden Barrett, Rieko Ioane, Jordie Barrett, Billy Proctor, Emoni Narawa, and Will Jordan. The bench includes Samisoni Taukei’aho, Ollie Norris, Pasilio Tosi, Samipeni Finau, Du’Plessis Kirifi, Cortez Ratima, Timoci Tavatavanawai, Damian McKenzie, and Tamaiti Williams.

Several key players, including Tamaiti Williams (knee), Tyrel Lomax (calf), Wallace Sititi (ankle), Luke Jacobson (concussion), Sevu Reece (concussion), and Scott Barrett (calf), were unavailable for selection.

The second test against France is expected to be a closely contested match, with the All Blacks looking to maintain their dominance on home soil. With Ardie Savea taking the captaincy, the team is looking to deliver a strong performance and secure a convincing win.

As the All Blacks prepare for the clash, fans are eagerly anticipating the debut of Emoni Narawa on the international stage. His inclusion in the starting lineup is a testament to his resilience and potential, and it will be interesting to see how he performs under the pressure of a high-stakes test match.