Get ready for a rugby showdown that promises to be nothing short of epic! The All Blacks are set to face England at Twickenham, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. But here’s where it gets controversial: head coach Scott Robertson has made some bold lineup changes that have fans and analysts buzzing. Let’s dive into the details.
All Blacks captain Scott Barrett is making a much-anticipated return to the starting XV after recovering from a leg injury that sidelined him during the Scotland Test. His leadership will be crucial as the team faces a formidable England side, currently ranked No.4 in the world. But this isn’t just about Barrett’s comeback—Robertson has reshuffled the midfield, a move that’s raising eyebrows.
In a surprising twist, Leicester Fainga’anuku will shift from centre to the left wing, replacing the injured Caleb Clarke. This means Billy Proctor will don the No.13 jersey for the eighth time this year, partnering with Quinn Tupaea in the midfield. Is this the right call, or has Robertson disrupted a winning formula? It’s a question that’s sure to spark debate.
Proctor will have big shoes to fill, as Fainga’anuku and Tupaea have been unstoppable in recent matches, breaking tackles and creating opportunities. Anton Lienert-Brown, meanwhile, takes a spot on the bench, potentially making his third Test appearance of the year as midfield cover.
The rest of the backline remains unchanged, with Cam Roigard at halfback, Beauden Barrett at flyhalf, and Leroy Carter and Will Jordan as the other outside backs. Damian McKenzie, whose impact off the bench against Scotland was nothing short of game-changing, retains the No.23 jersey.
Notably absent is Rieko Ioane, who was a strong contender for the left wing position. His last Test appearance was against the Wallabies in Perth last month, leaving fans wondering if this was a missed opportunity.
Up front, Barrett will partner with Fabian Holland in the second row, while Josh Lord moves to the bench. And this is the part most people miss: Robertson has also split up his in-form loose forward trio, bringing in Simon Parker to wear the No.6 jersey alongside Ardie Savea and Peter Lakai. Wallace Sititi, who received a yellow card against Scotland, will provide impact from the bench.
Parker’s inclusion adds bulk and a relentless workrate, which will be vital against England’s powerful pack. Sititi, despite his recent disciplinary issue, is expected to bring energy in the second half.
In a statement, Robertson acknowledged the significance of the match, set to kick off at 4.10am Sunday NZT: ‘Twickenham is a legendary venue, and hearing 80,000 fans singing ‘Swing Low’ is an experience like no other. Recent clashes with England have been nail-biters, and with both teams on winning streaks, we’re in for an epic battle. We’re ready to embrace the atmosphere and the challenge.’
The Hillary Shield, held by the All Blacks since 2013, is on the line once again. This Test also marks the 100th anniversary of the All Blacks’ first match at Twickenham, played by the legendary ‘Invincibles’ in January 1925. History is definitely in the making.
Adding to the drama, five of the last seven matches between these two teams have been decided by three points or fewer. England’s last victory over the All Blacks was in the 2019 World Cup semifinal, while New Zealand’s last defeat at Twickenham came in 2012. Will this be England’s year to reclaim glory, or will the All Blacks continue their dominance?
Here’s the full All Blacks lineup to face England:
- Ethan de Groot, 2. Codie Taylor, 3. Fletcher Newell, 4. Scott Barrett (c), 5. Fabian Holland, 6. Simon Parker, 7. Ardie Savea, 8. Peter Lakai, 9. Cam Roigard, 10. Beauden Barrett, 11. Leicester Fainga’anuku, 12. Quinn Tupaea, 13. Billy Proctor, 14. Leroy Carter, 15. Will Jordan.
Reserves: 16. Samisoni Taukei’aho, 17. Tamaiti Williams, 18. Pasilio Tosi, 19. Josh Lord, 20. Wallace Sititi, 21. Cortez Ratima, 22. Anton Lienert-Brown, 23. Damian McKenzie.
Unavailable for selection due to injury or personal reasons are Caleb Clarke, Luke Jacobson, Samipeni Finau, and Jordie Barrett.
So, what do you think? Are Robertson’s changes a stroke of genius or a risky gamble? Will the All Blacks maintain their grip on the Hillary Shield, or is England poised for an upset? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this is one debate you won’t want to miss!
