All Blacks v France: Scott Robertson to test depth in final French test in Hamilton
All Blacks v France: Scott Robertson to test depth in final French test in Hamilton
With the series against France already in the bag, All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson is preparing to take a calculated risk in the final match of the series in Hamilton. This opportunity may provide a glimpse into the future of New Zealand rugby, as he looks to integrate fringe players into the team under his ambitious 'Project 4-4-4' initiative.
Striking a Balance Between Experimentation and Competitiveness
As the All Blacks prepare for their third test against France, the temptation to test new combinations and give younger or less-regular players a chance is growing. This is especially true given the injuries that have impacted key players like Scott Barrett and Tupou Vaa’i, opening the door for players such as Naitoa Ah Kuoi to potentially make their debut.
Robertson has been vocal about his intent to give every player in the squad meaningful game time during this series, which could lead to several debuts for names like Tyrel Lomax, George Bower, and Ruben Love. However, the challenge lies in balancing this with the need to remain competitive against a French team that, while not at the top of the world rankings, is still a formidable opponent.
Project 4-4-4: The Roadmap to the Future
At the heart of Robertson’s strategy is 'Project 4-4-4', an ambitious plan to ensure that by 2027, the All Blacks will have four test-quality players in each position. This initiative aims to deepen the squad's depth, ensuring that the team is not overly reliant on a small group of players and is prepared for the long haul of international rugby competition.
This test against France presents a rare opportunity to experiment with this vision. With teams like Wales, Italy, and Japan offering more leeway for selection risks, the All Blacks may not have many more chances to test this concept against lower-ranked opponents in the coming years.
However, the challenge is not just about finding the right players but also about managing expectations. The French team, while not the most elite, is known for their resilience and tactical ingenuity. Robertson must decide whether the risk of introducing untested players is worth the potential reward of gaining valuable insights into the future of the squad.
Key Selection Questions and Roster Decisions
Several key decisions will shape the lineup for the final test. For instance, the selection of the scrum-half position presents a dilemma: should the team go with the less experienced Cortez Ratima or continue with the more seasoned Cam Roigard, with Noah Hotham potentially coming off the bench?
Another critical decision involves Damian McKenzie. If he is to be a viable alternative to Beauden Barrett at fly-half, he must be given the opportunity to play alongside Quinn Tupaea and Anton Lienert-Brown, who have had limited game time. This could mean that Timoci Tavatavanawai, who has minimal test experience, might be left on the bench, a decision that could be seen as a risk or a calculated move.
Similarly, the loosehead prop position raises questions about whether the selectors will trust George Bower and Ollie Norris, or if they will opt for the more experienced Ethan de Groot.
These decisions will not only shape the match but also provide a glimpse into how far the All Blacks are willing to go in testing their depth and commitment to the 'Project 4-4-4' vision.
Looking Ahead
As the All Blacks take to the field in Hamilton, the eyes of the rugby world will be on how Robertson navigates this pivotal moment. Will he take a bold step toward the future, or will he play it safe to ensure a win? This test is not just about securing another victory in the series—it's about shaping the trajectory of New Zealand rugby for years to come.
