All Blacks Face Major Lineup Changes Ahead of Crucial Third Test Against France

As the All Blacks prepare for their final showdown against France in Hamilton this Saturday, the team is set to undergo a significant transformation. With ten changes to the starting lineup, the squad is clearly signaling a shift in strategy and a desire to rotate players ahead of the pivotal third test.

Rotation and New Faces in the Starting XV

Only five players—Ethan de Groot, Fabian Holland, Patrick Tuipulotu, Ardie Savea, and Rieko Ioane—retain their positions in the starting lineup. This marks a major shake-up, as the coaching staff looks to freshen up the squad and test different combinations in the final match of the series.

In the forwards, Samisoni Taukei’aho earns a rare start at hooker, while Tyrel Lomax makes his presence felt at tighthead prop. With Tupou Vaa’i sidelined due to a concussion, Samipeni Finau steps into the blindside flanker role, and Luke Jacobson takes over at No 8.

Backline Changes and Emerging Talent

The backline sees a notable shift, with Cortez Ratima and Damian McKenzie forming the halfback and first five-eighths pairing, both from the Chiefs. Quinn Tupaea and Anton Lienert-Brown join them in the midfield, while Sevu Reece starts on the right wing. Ruben Love, who recently made his debut, takes the fullback role in the absence of Beauden Barrett, who is recovering from a hand injury.

The bench is also brimming with new talent, including Brodie McAlister, who is set for his debut, and other emerging players such as George Bower, Dalton Papali’i, and Noah Hotham. These additions reflect the All Blacks’ commitment to developing young talent and ensuring depth across the squad.

Coach Scott Robertson on the Build-Up

All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson has expressed confidence in the team’s ability to adapt and perform in the final test. Speaking ahead of the match, he emphasized the high level of motivation and focus within the squad, noting that the French are expected to be “determined and spirited.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Tyrel, Luke, Anton, and Sevu back from injury,” Robertson said. “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.”

All Blacks Team for the Third Test

The All Blacks lineup for the third test against France is as follows:

• 1. Ethan de Groot
• 2. Samisoni Taukei’aho
• 3. Tyrel Lomax
• 4. Patrick Tuipulotu
• 5. Fabian Holland
• 6. Samipeni Finau
• 7. Ardie Savea (c)
• 8. Luke Jacobson
• 9. Cortez Ratima
• 10. Damian McKenzie
• 11. Rieko Ioane
• 12. Quinn Tupaea
• 13. Anton Lienert-Brown
• 14. Sevu Reece
• 15. Ruben Love


• Bench: Brodie McAlister, George Bower, Fletcher Newell, Dalton Papali’i, Du’Plessis Kirifi, Noah Hotham, Timoci Tavatavanawai, Will Jordan

With the stakes high and the crowd in Hamilton expected to be electric, the All Blacks are poised for a thrilling final chapter in this series. The changes to the lineup not only reflect the team’s depth but also signal a strategic move to ensure a strong finish to their campaign against the French.