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All Blacks squad announced for gargantuan showdown with Springboks
Sport Nation • September 4th, 2025 12:00 pm
Emoni Narawa | Photo: Photosport
Scott Robertson has announced his gameday squad for the All Black's hugely anticipated clash with the Springboks at Eden Park on Saturday.
Among the most notable changes are the addition of Emoni Narawa in place of Sevu Reece on the right wing.
In the injury absence of Cortez Ratima, Noah Notham, and Cam Roigard, Finlay Christie has been handed the reins at halfback, with Kyle Preston providing back-up off the bench in what will be his Test debut.
Upfront, Wallace Sititi returns to the starting line-up at No. 8, shifting Simon parker to blindside flanker in his second test start.
Tupou Vaa'i moves into lock, pushing fabian Holland to an impact role off bench. Also adding power to the reserves are Tyrel Lomax and Du’Plessis Kirifi, who rejoin the 23 this week.
Ardie Savea will run out to play his 100th Test, having debuted back in 2016.
The perception of Ardie Savea ahead of his 100th All Blacks Test | Sport Nation
"Ardie embodies everything that makes an All Black," said Robertson.
"He brings an extraordinary level of passion, leadership, and mana every time he pulls on the jersey. We will honour his milestone with a performance that reflects not just his quality on the field, but the example he sets every day.
“Ardie is one of three centurions in the match day 23 to play South Africa, while Kyle Preston is joined by three other players who have debuted for the All Blacks this year. A
"As with all of our debutants, we know that Kyle will rise to the challenge in the black jersey. He is a skilful player who has proven his ability to drive a game and make smart decisions in pressure moments."
The All Blacks are trying to protect their 31-year unbeaten streak at their Auckland fortress, where they haven't lost to South Africa since 1937.
New Zealand have lifted three of the last four Rugby Championship winners' trophies, with South Africa claiming the spoils in 2024.
All Blacks team to play South Africa
1. Ethan de Groot, 2. Codie Taylor, 3. Fletcher Newell, 4. Scott Barrett (C), 5. Tupou Vaa'i, 6. Simon Parker, 7. Ardie Savea, 8. Wallace Sititi, 9. Finaly Christie, 10. Beauden Barrett, 11. Rieko Ioane, 12. Jordie Barrett (VC), 13. Billy Proctor, 14. Emoni Narawa, 15. Will Jordan.
Bench: 16. Samisoni Taukei’aho, 17. Tamaiti Williams, 18. Tyrel Lomax, 19. Fabian Holland, 20. Du'Plessis Kirifi, 21. Kyle Preston, 22. Quinn Tupaea, 23. Damian McKenzie.
Is the All Blacks' record at Eden Park in danger against the Springboks? | Sport Nation
