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Sport Nation
Find your Sport Nation frequencySeven changes for All Blacks' final face-off with France
Sport Nation • July 17th, 2025 10:45 am
Photo: Photosport
Scott Robertson has named his side to take on France in the third and final test at FMG Stadium in Hamilton, with a number of exciting changes.
Seven players in the match-day 23 have been named for the first time this season, including Brodie McAlister, who is set to make his All Blacks debut if he comes off the bench to replace starting hooker Samisoni Taukei’aho.
Also making their return from injury are Tyrel Lomax, Luke Jacobson, Anton Lienert-Brown, and Sevu Reece, who will all start. Ruben Love will earn his second cap at fullback as Will Jordan moves to the bench.
Fan favourite Timoci Tavatavanawai will keep his spot on the bench, after his impactful debut in Wellington. Meanwhile, Patrick Tuipolotou steps up as solo vice-captain alongside Ardie Savea, who will continue his role as captain.
The turf team behind FMG Stadium Waikato | Sport Nation x PGG Wrightson Turf
In the reserves, George Bower, Dalton Papali’i, and Noah Hotham will all get their chance to pull on the black jersey for the first time in 2025.
Robertson spoke about the motivation in the camp ahead of the match, saying, “There’s high motivation and focus to perform in Hamilton. We are prepared for a determined and spirited French side, and we’re excited to play in front of a passionate, sold-out crowd.”
He also highlighted the return of key players, adding, “We’re thrilled to welcome back Tyrel, Luke, Anton, and Sevu, and we know they’ll be ready to perform at the highest level. It’s also exciting to have Brodie debuting, as well as Ruben, Noah, and Timoci adding to their All Blacks caps. These men have earned their place and will take their opportunity on Saturday night.”
The All Blacks will be aiming to close out the series with a third win and end the July campaign on a high note.
All Blacks team to play France in Hamilton
15. Ruben Love, 14. Sevu Reece, 13. Anton Lienert-Brown, 12. Quinn Tupaea, 11. Rieko Ioane, 10. Damian McKenzie, 9. Cortez Ratima, 8. Luke Jacobson, 7. Ardie Savea (captain), 6. Samipeni Finau, 5. Fabian Holland, 4. Patrick Tuipulotu (vice-captain), 3. Tyrel Lomax, 2. Samisoni Taukei'aho, 1. Ethan de Groot.
Bench: 16. Brodie McAlister, 17. George Bower, 18. Fletcher Newell, 19. Dalton Papali'i, 20. Du’Plessis Kirifi, 21. Noah Hotham, 22. Timoci Tavatavanawai, 23. Will Jordan.
Karl Johnson explains FMG Stadium Waikato's hybrid turf | Sport Nation x PGG Wrightson Turf
