JOHANNESBURG (AP) — The All Blacks have made notable adjustments to their lineup for the upcoming third rugby test against South Africa, with centurion Codie Taylor being dropped in favor of hooker Asafo Aumua. This change comes as the two teams prepare for a decisive match at FNB Stadium, where the series is currently tied 1-1.
In addition to Aumua's promotion, New Zealand has also included lock Sam Darry and flanker Peter Lakai in the starting pack. The All Blacks are looking to bounce back after suffering a narrow defeat in the second test, where they lost 33-26 in Cape Town last Saturday. Despite the loss, the backline remains unchanged, as the team seeks to build on their previous performances.
Codie Taylor has been a mainstay for the All Blacks, having started in all five tests this year, including the first two encounters against the Springboks. With his total of 111 test caps, Taylor's experience will be missed, but Aumua's selection indicates a strategic shift as the team aims for victory in this crucial match.
Aumua will take the starting position at hooker, while Samisoni Taukei'aho will serve as a backup on the bench. Darry's inclusion marks his first appearance in the series, taking over from Fabian Holland, who will now be among the reserves. Lakai, who has contributed from the bench in both previous tests, will don the No. 6 jersey following Simon Parker's exclusion from the matchday squad. Wallace Sititi is also set to make his series debut as an impact loose forward.
In a milestone moment, lock Tupou Vaa'i will be playing his 50th test match, adding to the significance of the occasion for the All Blacks. Coach Dave Rennie emphasized the importance of this match, stating, “The team that doesn't win this weekend can't win the series. That’s the kind of challenge we love to rise to.” This highlights the high stakes involved as both teams vie for supremacy in this four-test series.
On the South African side, the Springboks have made a key change as well, replacing injured fullback Damian Willemse with Cheslin Kolbe, who will join Kurt-Lee Arendse on the wing. This adjustment reflects South Africa's commitment to maintaining their competitive edge as they aim to secure the series against a formidable All Blacks side.
The All Blacks' lineup for the match includes: Damian McKenzie, Will Jordan, Quinn Tupaea, Jordie Barrett, Leroy Carter, Ruben Love, Cam Roigard; Ardie Savea (captain), Luke Jacobson, Peter Lakai, Sam Darry, Tupou Vaa'i, Tyrel Lomax, Asafo Aumua, and George Bower. The reserves consist of Samisoni Taukei'aho, Xavier Numia, Fletcher Newell, Fabian Holland, Wallace Sititi, Kyle Preston, Anton Lienert-Brown, and Josh Moorby.
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