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All Blacks squad reveals insights about Dave Rennie’s selection strategy – Gregor Paul

ANALYSIS: The experimental phase is over as the All Blacks enter judgment month.

Published: Tuesday, 27 October 2026 at 1:01 AM
All Blacks squad reveals insights about Dave Rennie’s selection strategy – Gregor Paul
Key Things to Know
  • Gregor Paul argues Dave Rennie's 36-man All Blacks squad demonstrates a ruthless shift toward establishing consistency and high standards.
  • Rennie has recorded a 66% win rate since taking over as head coach from Scott Robertson.
  • Lock Jamie Hannah and back Chay Fihaki earned selections over omitted players Patrick Tuipulotu, Sam Darry, and Emoni Narawa.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Gregor Paul writes that head coach Dave Rennie’s 36-player All Blacks squad for the upcoming northern tour signals an end to experimentation and a shift toward driving higher performance standards. Despite holding a 66% win rate since replacing Scott Robertson earlier in the year, the team is showing positive developmental trajectory and improved tactical cohesion following the Bledisloe Cup series against Australia.

According to the analysis, Rennie has demonstrated a ruthless selection edge by dropping established players such as Sam Darry, Patrick Tuipulotu, and Emoni Narawa in favor of Jamie Hannah and Chay Fihaki. The upcoming four-test tour includes matches against Scotland, Wales, England, and an additional Six Nations opponent.

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