Live: All Blacks v France – Third International Rugby Test in Hamilton

The All Blacks are set to face France in the third and final test of their series in Hamilton on Saturday night, with the match kicking off at 7:05pm (NZ time) at the Waikato Stadium. Fans can catch live coverage on Sky Sport 1 or follow Stuff’s live updates from 6:30pm.

Team Line-Ups

Scott Robertson has made significant changes to the All Blacks’ starting line-up, with 10 players stepping up for their first test starts. Key players include Ruben Love, Quinn Tupaea, Damian McKenzie, Luke Jacobson, Samipeni Finau, and Samisoni Taukei'aho, all of whom will be under the spotlight in front of a sold-out crowd.

The All Blacks line-up features: Ruben Love, Will Jordan, Anton Lienert-Brown, Quinn Tupaea, Sevu Reece, Damian McKenzie, Cortez Ratima; Luke Jacobson, Ardie Savea (captain), Samipeni Finau, Fabian Holland, Patrick Tuipulotu, Tyrel Lomax, Samisoni Taukei'aho, Ethan de Groot. Reserves include Brodie McAlister, George Bower, Fletcher Newell, Dalton Papali'i, Du'Plessis Kirifi, Noah Hotham, Timoci Tavatavanawai, and Jordie Barrett.

The French team, meanwhile, is led by captain Gaël Fickou and includes Léo Barré, Théo Attissogbé, Nicolas Depoortère, Gabin Villière, Antoine Hastoy, Nolan Le Garrec, and others. Reserves include Gaëtan Barlot, Paul Mallez, Demba Bamba, Romain Taofifénua, Killian Tixeront, Pierre Bochaton, Thibault Daubagna, and Émilien Gailleton.

Key Insights and Analysis

France coach Fabien Galthié is expected to field his strongest possible line-up for this final test, despite the squad’s weakened state after a long domestic season. The French team has been resting its star players, but this match is reportedly the one they were most eager to play in the series.

For the All Blacks, this game is a chance to secure a clean sweep of the series, which they currently lead 2-0. Coach Scott Robertson has made it clear that the team will be giving every player an opportunity to shine, as he lives up to his promise of rotating the squad throughout the series.

Both teams have high stakes in this match. For the All Blacks, it’s about maintaining dominance and setting the tone for the Rugby Championship, which starts with two tests in Argentina next month. For the French, it’s about proving themselves on New Zealand soil and achieving their first win against the All Blacks since 2009.

Player to Watch: Ruben Love

Ruben Love, the All Blacks’ fullback, is expected to make his first test start in Hamilton. Known for his confidence and reliability, Love is a key player in the team’s strategy, especially given the French tendency to use high kicks to build pressure.

Meanwhile, Antoine Hastoy, the French No. 10, is replacing Joris Segonds and has a chance to shine in this crucial match. His performance will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.

Historical Context

This will be the first time France has played in Hamilton. Historically, the All Blacks have dominated their encounters with the French, with 50 wins to France’s 15 in 66 meetings since their first clash in 1906. The only draw between the two teams was in Paris in 2002.

What the Coaches Said

All Blacks coach Scott Robertson emphasized the importance of the match: “They're a fierce opponent and a proud opponent. It's going to be a hell of a week, so we've got the right combination and balance for this group to respect them and put out a performance in Hamilton.”

Ruben Love added: “I think I can bring an X factor, but also being reliable. I feel like I've done well under the high kicks. This is my chance to shine.”

Chances and Odds

According to bookmakers, the All Blacks are the favorites to win the match, with odds of around 1.30 to 1. However, the French have a chance to pull off an upset given their strong performance in the second test.

As the All Blacks aim for a clean sweep, and the French look to break their losing streak, fans around the world will be watching closely to see who comes out on top in this historic match.