More injuries have forced Dave Rennie into a reshuffle for the Bledisloe Cup opener.
Damian McKenzie has been selected to start at first five-eighth for the All Blacks in Saturday's Bledisloe Cup opener against Australia at Eden Park. Head coach Dave Rennie reshuffled the backline after injuries sidelined Richie Mo'unga and Ruben Love, moving Beauden Barrett to fullback. Meanwhile, lock Scott Barrett returns to the starting lineup alongside Josh Lord for his first test match of the year following a long-term back injury.
The forward pack also features loose forwards Peter Lakai and Wallace Sititi starting alongside Tupou Vaa'i, with Ardie Savea and Luke Jacobson unavailable due to injuries. Shannon Frizell makes his return to the squad via the bench after previously playing in Japan, and center Quinn Tupaea has recovered from a knee injury to start beside Jordie Barrett.
Wallabies to face All Blacks at iconic MCG in 2027 Bledisloe CupRugby Pass
Northland’s fairytale finish falls short as Canterbury defend NPC crownRugby Pass
Marcus Smith produces timely reminder of his class as Harlequins sink SaracensThe Guardian
Smith stars as Brendan Venter’s Sarries suffer thrashingRugby365
To provide the best experiences, we and our partners use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. Consenting to these technologies will allow us and our partners to process personal data such as browsing behavior or unique IDs on this site and show (non-) personalized ads. Not consenting or withdrawing consent, may adversely affect certain features and functions.
Click below to consent to the above or make granular choices. Your choices will be applied to this site only. You can change your settings at any time, including withdrawing your consent, by using the toggles on the Cookie Policy, or by clicking on the manage consent button at the bottom of the screen.

Get the latest sports news and top stories from MySportsTab delivered straight to your inbox.
No spam. Just the latest sports news and updates.