Here’s a breakdown of the All Blacks squad selection for their Rugby Championship opener against Argentina, highlighting key decisions and potential implications under Scott Robertson’s leadership.
Strongest Side Forward?
Robertson has clearly signalled his intent by naming what he considers his strongest available team to face Los Pumas. This selection demonstrates a desire to start the Rugby Championship with a statement of intent. While this approach might be expected, it also invites scrutiny regarding the balance between experience and the development of emerging talent.
Inevitably, some selections will spark debate among supporters. The inclusion of Sevu Reece on the wing is one such decision that is likely to be questioned. Despite past criticisms, Reece remains a favourite of Robertson. He joins Will Jordan and Rieko Ioane in the back three. The midfield pairing of Jordie Barrett and Billy Proctor, soon-to-be club teammates at the Hurricanes, appears a settled choice, especially with Ioane’s shift to the wing.
The half-back positions see Beauden Barrett partnered with Cortez Ratima. Ratima’s inclusion at scrum-half comes due to Cam Roigard’s injury, placing considerable pressure on him to perform and silence any doubts surrounding his selection.
Savea’s Positional Shift
The forward pack presents a significant talking point: Ardie Savea’s move to number eight. While not entirely unexpected given injuries to Wallace Sititi and Luke Jacobson, this decision is a departure from the recent focus on establishing Savea as an openside flanker. This suggests a pragmatic approach from Robertson, prioritising the team’s immediate needs over long-term positional planning.
Savea will combine with Du’Plessis Kirifi and Tupou Vaa’i in the back row. The front five comprises Scott Barrett and Fabian Holland at lock, with Fletcher Newell, Codie Taylor, and Ethan de Groot forming the front row.
The bench offers a blend of experience and potential, featuring Samisoni Taukei’aho, Patrick Tuipulotu, Damian McKenzie, and Anton Lienert-Brown. Ollie Norris, Pasilio Tosi, Finlay Christie, and Samipeni Finau complete the replacements.
Rookies Remain on the Sidelines
The selection suggests a preference for experience over blooding new talent. Simon Parker, who was recently included in the main squad, misses out on selection for this opening match. While Parker is undoubtedly a promising player, he will have to bide his time for an opportunity. The same applies to Kyle Preston, the Crusaders scrum-half who was in contention for a place on the bench. Despite a strong challenge, Christie was ultimately preferred.
Leroy Carter and Tevita Mafileo were always unlikely to feature in this match, highlighting Robertson’s cautious approach to introducing uncapped players in high-stakes encounters.
Savea’s Versatility: A Blessing and a Curse?
Savea’s switch to number eight underscores his exceptional ability to perform across multiple positions. However, it also raises questions about the stability of the loose forward combination. While the Vaa’i-Kirifi-Savea trio offers a good balance, it is unlikely to be a long-term solution. Savea’s long-term position remains uncertain, and constant changes in the loose forward mix could be detrimental to the team’s cohesion.
The return of Sititi, the emergence of Parker, and the eventual availability of Jacobson and Peter Lakai will further complicate the selection process.
A Conservative Approach?
While Robertson has been praised for his bold selections earlier in the year, his team selection for the Argentina match appears more conservative. The inclusion of Holland at lock and the shift of Vaa’i to blindside flanker earlier in the season, alongside debuts for Brodie McAlister, Norris, Kirifi, and Timoci Tavatavanawai, suggested a willingness to experiment. However, for this crucial opening fixture, he has opted for trusted players.
The selection of Reece and Ioane, despite concerns over their recent form, indicates a degree of loyalty and a reluctance to make wholesale changes. Emoni Narawa, who impressed in Super Rugby, misses out, as does the opportunity to shift Will Jordan to the wing and introduce either McKenzie or Ruben Love.
The true test of Robertson’s willingness to experiment will come in future matches, particularly against stronger opposition.
Second Chances
Finlay Christie’s inclusion is a surprise, given that his international career appeared to be over not long ago. After being dropped from the squad following the Tests against England last year, he has been given a lifeline due to injuries to Roigard and Hotham. This represents a final opportunity for Christie to prove his worth at the international level.
Anton Lienert-Brown finds himself in a similar situation. Despite his extensive experience, he faces stiff competition for a place in the midfield. While he can cover outside centre, his position in the squad is far from secure, particularly with the emergence of younger players like Tupaea and Tavatavanawai.