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Sport Nation
Fainga'anuku's All Blacks return confirmed for Bledisloe clash in Perth
Sport Nation •  October 2nd, 2025 5:30 pm
Photo: Photosport
Leicester Fainga'anuku is set to make his long-awaited return to Test rugby, named on the left wing for the All Blacks as they prepare to face the Wallabies at Optus Stadium this Saturday evening.
It will be Fainga'anuku’s first appearance in the black jersey since the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
Despite securing the Bledisloe Cup with a 33–24 win at Eden Park last weekend, there’s plenty on the line in Perth, including the chance to improve on a modest 50% win record at Optus Stadium.
Head coach Scott Robertson has made six changes to the starting side, several of them injury-enforced.
Justin Marshall on the All Blacks' backline win against the Wallabies | The Rugby Run
Beauden Barrett and Ethan de Groot remain in New Zealand, while Tyrel Lomax (broken thumb) and Caleb Clarke (ankle) are unavailable for selection.
In the forward pack, captain Scott Barrett returns in the No. 4 jersey, joining Tupou Vaa’i in the second row.
Peter Lakai earns his first Test start at No. 8 after four impressive cameos off the bench, with Wallace Sititi moving into an impact role. Tamaiti Williams and Fletcher Newell are new additions to the front row.
In the backs, Damian McKenzie takes over at first-five, Quinn Tupaea starts at centre in the No.13 jersey for the first time, and Fainga'anuku slots back into the wing position he made his own in 2023.
Another milestone looms for Will Jordan, who will run out for his 50th Test match in the black jersey.
All Blacks team to play Wallabies
1. Tamaiti Williams, 2. Codie Taylor, 3. Fletcher Newell, 4. Scott Barrett (C), 5. Tupou Vaa’i, 6. Simon Parker, 7. Ardie Savea (VC), 8. Peter Lakai, 9. Cam Roigard, 10. Damian McKenzie, 11. Leicester Fainga'anuku, 12. Jordie Barrett (VC), 13. Quinn Tupaea, 14. Leroy Carter, 15. Will Jordan.
Bench: 16. Samisoni Taukei’aho, 17. George Bower, 18. Pasilio Tosi, 19. Patrick Tuipulotu, 20. Wallace Sititi, 21. Cortez Ratima, 22. Rieko Ioane, 23. Ruben Love.
Have the All Blacks secured their wing combination? | Scotty & Izzy
