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Papali'i to captain All Blacks XV against Barbarians
Sport Nation • October 31st, 2025 9:16 am
Dalton Papali'i | Photo: Photosport
Dalton Papali'i will lead the All Blacks XV for their clash with the Barbarians in Brentford on Sunday (NZ time).
The 37-Test veteran is one of four All Blacks in the team alongside midfielder David Havili, halfback Kyle Preston and utility Braydon Ennor.
Josh Jacomb has been handed the reins at first-five in a backline that includes a dangerous outside combination of Caleb Tangitau, Etene Nanai-Seturo, and Jacob Ratumaivuki-Kneepkens, while Daniel Rona joins Havili in the centres.
Jamie Joseph on his role with the All Blacks XV | Mornings
Papali'i forms a loose forward trio with Devan Flanders and Kaylum Boshier, packing down behind locks Josh Beehre and Caleb Delany.
Up front, props Xavier Numia and George Dyer partner with hooker Jack Taylor.
"We’re expecting three tough matches on this tour and the experience and leadership of Dalton and our other senior players will be valuable for what will be three exciting challenges," said coach Jamie Joseph.
"We’ve selected a squad full of talented players who have a great opportunity to showcase their talents in a black jersey and on an international stage.”
All Blacks XV to play the Barbarians
1. Xavier Numia, 2. Jack Taylor, 3. George Dyer, 4. Josh Beehre, 5. Caleb Delany, 6. Kaylum Boshier, 7. Dalton Papali'i (captain), 8. Devan Flanders, 9. Xavier Roe, 10. Josh Jacomb, 11. Etene Nanai-Seturo, 12. David Havili, 13. Daniel Rona, 14. Caleb Tangitau, 15. Jacob Ratumatavuki-Kneepkens.
Bench: 16. Bradley Slater, 17. Josh Fusitua, 18. Siale Lauaki, 19. Jamie Hannah, 20.Sean Withy, 21. Kyle Preston, 22. Rivez Reihana, 23. Braydon Ennor.
The All Blacks’ Northern Tour begins this weekend! Tune into The Rugby Run with Justin Marshall and Mark Watson for talkback, interviews and more post-match. This Sunday from midday on Sport Nation.
Tony Johnson analyses Jamie Joseph's All Blacks XV squad | Mornings
