Auckland: All Blacks bolster pack for Ireland clash at Eden Park
The All Blacks are preparing for a significant challenge against Ireland in the Nations Championship, with coach Dave Rennie making strategic changes to the squad to enhance the team’s physicality. The match, set to take place at Eden Park, will test the All Blacks’ long-standing unbeaten record at the venue.
One notable change sees Tupou Vaa’i moving from lock to blindside flanker, a decision aimed at strengthening the team’s set-piece options and overall pack size. Rennie stated that Vaa’i possesses the necessary skillset and athleticism for the role, providing another strong lineout option. This move also allows for the inclusion of Anton Segner and Peter Lakai on the bench.
Returning to the squad after a period of injury, Patrick Tuipulotu will start at lock alongside Josh Lord. Tuipulotu, who experienced a calf problem earlier, expressed satisfaction with his recovery and readiness for the game. His return is expected to add significant impact to the tight five, which Rennie believes will be crucial in the scrum and lineout battle against Ireland’s formidable forward pack.
Josh Moorby is set to make his first test start on the left wing, following an impressive debut performance off the bench against Italy. Rennie praised Moorby’s consistent performance throughout the year and his confidence during his initial appearance. Moorby himself acknowledged the learning curve during his debut and highlighted the support from his teammates. He also reflected on his development during his time in Europe before returning to New Zealand.
The All Blacks are acutely aware of the threats posed by Ireland, with Rennie acknowledging them as an excellent side with genuine confidence. The coach emphasised the need for an improved performance compared to their last outing against Italy. Jordie Barrett, who had a minor niggle earlier in the week, participated fully in Thursday’s training session.
Ireland’s coach, Andy Farrell, views this match as a significant opportunity for his team to potentially break the All Blacks’ extensive unbeaten streak at Eden Park. Farrell has been able to select a full-strength side, including the return of wing Robert Baloucoune from a hamstring injury. Flanker Tadhg Beirne, who captained the team last week against Japan, will start, and Jimmy O’Brien will play on the left wing. O’Brien is one of five players who have started all three Nations Championship games, alongside Stuart McCloskey, Jack Conan, James Ryan, and Tom O’Toole.
The All Blacks’ Eden Park record, which spans 32 years and 52 tests, is a significant point of discussion. Rennie views the pressure of maintaining this record as a motivator rather than a burden. Tuipulotu echoed this sentiment, stating that while the team acknowledges the record, it serves as an inspiration to avoid being the first team to lose at the venue. He noted the healthy respect the All Blacks have for Ireland, acknowledging their status as significant rivals, especially after their series win in New Zealand in 2022.
The teams for the upcoming match are as follows:
All Blacks Squad
- 1. Ethan de Groot (42)
- 2. Codie Taylor (108)
- 3. Tyrel Lomax (50)
- 4. Josh Lord (14)
- 5. Patrick Tuipulotu (56)
- 6. Tupou Vaa’i (46)
- 7. Luke Jacobson (26)
- 8. Ardie Savea (108 – captain)
- 9. Cam Roigard (19)
- 10. Ruben Love (7)
- 11. Josh Moorby (1)
- 12. Jordie Barrett (80)
- 13. Quinn Tupaea (25)
- 14. Will Jordan (56)
- 15. Damian McKenzie (76)
Substitutes include Asafo Aumua (21), Xavier Numia (1), Fletcher Newell (36), Anton Segner (1), Peter Lakai (9), Cortez Ratima (23), Anton Lienert-Brown (89), and Caleb Clarke (34).
Ireland Squad
- 1. Tom O’Toole (23)
- 2. Dan Sheehan (40 – captain)
- 3. Tadhg Furlong (87)
- 4. Joe McCarthy (25)
- 5. James Ryan (82)
- 6. Tadhg Beirne (72)
- 7. Josh van der Flier (80)
- 8. Jack Conan (61)
- 9. Jamison Gibson-Park (52)
- 10. Sam Prendergast (16)
- 11. Jimmy O’Brien (13)
- 12. Stuart McCloskey (30)
- 13. Garry Ringrose (75)
- 14. Robert Baloucoune (8)
- 15. Hugo Keenan (47)
Substitutes include Ronan Kelleher (50), Jeremy Loughman (9), Thomas Clarkson (15), Nick Timoney (13), Sean Jansen (1), Craig Casey (29), Ciaran Frawley (14), and Bundee Aki (71).
The match will be officiated by referee Nic Berry from Australia.
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Source: allblacks.com
