All Blacks vs France Third Test in Hamilton: Everything You Need to Know

As the All Blacks prepare to face France in the third and final Test of their series, fans and rugby enthusiasts around the world are tuning in for what promises to be an electrifying showdown. The match will take place at the FMG Stadium in Hamilton on Saturday at 7:05 PM local time. This is a crucial opportunity for the All Blacks to complete a clean sweep of the series, a feat they have achieved only five times in history, last accomplished in 2018.

Historical Context

The All Blacks have a formidable record against France, with 50 test wins to the French team’s 15. The only loss in Hamilton in the last 16 matches was to the Springboks in 2009, since which the All Blacks have remained undefeated at the venue. This will be the first time France has played a test match in Hamilton, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the encounter.

Line-Ups and Key Players

The All Blacks’ line-up will be confirmed on Thursday, with Scott Barrett already ruled out for the series and Tupou Vaa’i failing a head injury assessment following the second test. Sevu Reece is set to return after his previous HIA, while Codie Taylor may be making his 99th test appearance if selected. On the French side, Pierre-Louis Barassi, Cameron Woki, and Régis Montagne have already been ruled out.

Referee and Odds

The match will be officiated by Australian referee Angus Gardner, who has a strong record with the All Blacks, having overseen 12 of their 15 tests since 2016. The TAB odds for the match currently favor the All Blacks at $1.07, with France at $7.50 and a draw at $31.

How to Watch and Follow the Action

Rugby fans can catch live commentary on Newstalk ZB, Gold Sport, and iHeartRadio, while Sky Sport 1 will broadcast the game. The match will also be livestreamed on Sky Sport Now. Live updates will be available on nzherald.co.nz.

A Historic Series

If the All Blacks win, they will have secured their fifth clean sweep over France in three tests, a testament to their dominance in the sport. With a 75% winning rate under coach Scott Robertson, the All Blacks are in a strong position to make history once again.

*Note: The content above is based on publicly available information and is not affiliated with any news organization.*