Scott Robertson Names First All Blacks Squad of 2024
New Zealand head coach Scott Robertson has named a 32-man squad for the 2024 international season, featuring five uncapped players and the return of veteran lock Patrick Tuipulotu. The squad, which will face England in a two-test series in July, marks the beginning of a new era for the All Blacks following the departure of former coach Ian Foster after the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
Who are the new faces in the All Blacks squad?
The five players set for a potential international debut include Chiefs prop George Dyer, Hurricanes hooker Asafo Aumua, and Crusaders playmaker Fergus Burke. They are joined by Blues flanker Dalton Papali’i and Hurricanes lock Caleb Delany. These selections reflect a shift in focus toward domestic Super Rugby Pacific form, with Robertson emphasizing the need for high-intensity, aggressive playstyles. According to the official New Zealand Rugby announcement, the coaching staff prioritized depth in the forward pack to combat the physical challenge expected from the English side.
Why is this squad selection significant?
This roster is the first under Scott Robertson’s full tenure as head coach. Robertson, who previously led the Crusaders to seven consecutive Super Rugby titles, faces immediate pressure to maintain the All Blacks’ status as a top-tier global contender. His selection strategy contrasts with his predecessor, Ian Foster, by favoring a blend of seasoned campaigners and youth who have excelled in the high-tempo environment of the 2024 Super Rugby season. The inclusion of Patrick Tuipulotu as a potential captaincy option provides the necessary experience to anchor a pack that has seen significant turnover since the 2023 final.
How does the 2024 squad compare to previous years?
| Feature | 2024 Squad | 2023 World Cup Squad |
|---|---|---|
| Head Coach | Scott Robertson | Ian Foster |
| Uncapped Players | 5 | 2 |
| Focus | Super Rugby Form | Tournament Experience |
What is the schedule for the upcoming test series?
The All Blacks will open their 2024 campaign against England on July 6 at Forsyth Barr Stadium in Dunedin. The second test is scheduled for July 13 at Eden Park in Auckland. Both matches carry significant weight for the world rankings, as the All Blacks look to solidify their position near the top of the table. England, under head coach Steve Borthwick, enters the series following a competitive Six Nations campaign, making these matches a vital test for Robertson’s tactical adjustments.
Key Takeaways
- Scott Robertson’s first squad includes five uncapped players, signaling a long-term rebuild.
- The squad features a heavy reliance on top-performing players from the 2024 Super Rugby Pacific season.
- Patrick Tuipulotu returns to the fold, providing leadership in the forward pack.
- The international season begins with a high-stakes series against England in July.
As the team prepares for the opening test, the focus remains on integrating these new players into the “Razor” Robertson system. Success in the upcoming series against England will be the first major indicator of whether the All Blacks can successfully transition into this new chapter of international rugby.