All Blacks Set to Shuffle Squad for Final French Test…
With the France test series already sealed after back-to-back victories, the All Blacks are preparing to reshuffle their squad ahead of the third and final encounter in Hamilton on July 19. Head coach Scott Robertson has confirmed that changes are imminent, driven by both injury setbacks and the desire to build squad depth.
Series Already Won, Eyes on Experimentation
New Zealand’s 43–17 rout of France in Wellington on July 12 secured the Dave Gallaher Trophy and gave the All Blacks an unassailable 2–0 lead in the three-match series. The dominant display was a major statement by Robertson’s side, who are steadily crafting a post-World Cup identity rooted in aggressive attack, contestable kicking, and defensive discipline.
With the pressure off, the final test now offers an opportunity to test combinations and give fresh faces a chance on the international stage.
“We’ve earned the right to explore some options,” Robertson told reporters on Monday. “This is a chance to reward players who’ve been working hard behind the scenes. It’s also vital for our long-term planning.”
Key Absentees: Barrett and Clarke Out
Captain Scott Barrett has been ruled out of the final test after suffering a calf injury during the first match in Dunedin. Winger Caleb Clarke also joins the sidelines, following a high ankle sprain sustained in training ahead of the Wellington test. Clarke will not feature again in this series.
Ardie Savea, who wore the captain’s armband in Wellington, is expected to continue in the leadership role, with lock Tupou Vaa’i likely retaining his starting spot after a strong performance at blindside flanker.
Rising Stars Set to Shine
One of the most anticipated inclusions is Moana Pasifika winger Timoci Tavatavanawai, who is poised to make his All Blacks debut. The Fijian-born flyer has impressed in Super Rugby with his powerful running and defensive work rate. Robertson hinted that Tavatavanawai could earn minutes off the bench or potentially start, depending on final training sessions this week.
Utility back Emoni Narawa has also been recalled to replace Clarke, while experienced campaigners such as Rieko Ioane are expected to shift roles to accommodate new entrants. Ioane, who usually starts at center, may return to the wing.
“We’ve got good flexibility in the backs,” said assistant coach Leon MacDonald. “Guys like Rieko can play multiple roles, and that gives us freedom to experiment.”
Forwards Battle Heating Up
With Barrett out, Patrick Tuipulotu and Sam Whitelock are in contention to partner Vaa’i in the second row. Tuipulotu returned from injury just in time for the Wellington test and could be handed more minutes to regain form.
Loose forward combinations may also see changes, with Dalton Papali’i, Luke Jacobson, and Hoskins Sotutu pushing for starts.
A Chance to Finish Strong
Despite having already clinched the series, Robertson emphasized that the All Blacks are not taking the final test lightly.
“There’s no such thing as a dead rubber in a black jersey,” he said. “Every test matters — to the team, to the jersey, and to our fans.”
The third test against France kicks off Saturday night at FMG Stadium Waikato, with fans eagerly awaiting the unveiling of the final matchday squad on Thursday.
Upcoming Fixture:
🆚 France (3rd Test)
📍 FMG Stadium Waikato, Hamilton
📅 Saturday, July 19
🕗 7:05 PM NZT
