Dave Rennie Rings Changes for Sydney Bledisloe Cup Test
“Last week was a big week, with it being our first game back on New Zealand soil after a long tour away and the Bledisloe Cup on the line,” All Blacks head coach Dave Rennie said, as reported by the NZ Herald. Rennie has made notable alterations to his starting XV and bench as the team prepares to face the Wallabies at Accor Stadium in Sydney on Saturday.
The All Blacks enter the second Bledisloe Cup fixture carrying a 50-19 victory from Eden Park. Rennie stated the team must back up that opening performance against a wounded opponent on home soil.
Pack Adjustments Bring Mobility to Sydney Clash
Lock Fabian Holland returns to the starting second row, replacing Josh Lord alongside veteran Scott Barrett, according to RNZ. Loosehead prop George Bower also shifts from the reserves into the No. 1 jersey in place of Ethan de Groot.
Your Wallabies to face the All Blacks for the Bledisloe Cup 🦘 pic.twitter.com/qrL51Ff8jX
These forward changes aim to inject greater mobility and reinforce the lineout against an Australian pack determined to rebound. Meanwhile, Tupou Vaa’i retains his starting spot at blindside flanker, completing the loose trio alongside Peter Lakai and Wallace Sititi.
Du’Plessis Kirifi Wins Hard-Fought All Blacks Recall
Openside flanker Du’Plessis Kirifi earns a place in the reserves as loose forward cover, marking a swift return to the national setup after missing the South African tour. Rennie acknowledged the intense scrutiny surrounding the Hurricanes player, noting that coaches asked Kirifi to refine specific areas of his game following the Super Rugby season.
Injuries across the squad forced several selection adjustments. Leroy Carter suffered a high ankle sprain while scoring a try at Eden Park, opening the left-wing spot for Josh Moorby. Hooker Asafo Aumua and loose forward Anton Segner were sidelined due to concussions, while Ethan Blackadder and Richie Mo’unga were unavailable due to calf injuries.
Wallabies Milestone and Lineup Responses
Wallabies coach Les Kiss has made four changes to his starting XV, bringing in Declan Meredith at first-five after Ben Donaldson sustained a minor leg injury in Auckland. Queensland lock Lukhan Salakaia-Loto reaches his 50th Test milestone, partnering Jeremy Williams in the second row.
Queensland scrumhalf Kalani Thomas and uncapped playmaker Harry McLaughlin-Phillips provide bench cover for the hosts.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is the second Bledisloe Cup Test taking place?
The match takes place on Saturday at Accor Stadium in Sydney, following the opening encounter at Eden Park.
Who replaces Leroy Carter on the All Blacks wing?
Josh Moorby steps into the No. 11 jersey on the left wing after Carter suffered a high ankle sprain during the first Test.
What milestones or landmarks are the Wallabies celebrating in this match?
Queensland lock Lukhan Salakaia-Loto plays his 50th Test for Australia, having made his debut against South Africa in Bloemfontein in 2017.