Richie Mo’unga will start at flyhalf for New Zealand in their Test against France in Paris after Beauden Barrett failed to recover in time from a knock to the head sustained last weekend.
Barrett was injured in the 29-20 defeat to Ireland last weekend, with Mo’unga one of seven changes to the starting side for Saturday’s match at the Stade de France.
Coach Ian Foster, though, suggests that the rotation of players is not a reaction to the disappointment in Dublin.
Mo’unga will be partnered by scrumhalf Aaron Smith, while Quinn Tupaea takes over the number 12 jersey from Anton Lienert-Brown and will form a midfield pairing with Rieko Ioane.
(Photo by Anthony Au-Yeung/Getty Images)
George Bridge and Will Jordan are on the wings, alongside fullback Jordie Barrett in a powerful back three.
Dane Coles has got the nod at hooker and will form a front row with props Nepo Laulala and Joe Moody, while captain Sam Whitelock is in the second row with Brodie Retallick.
Akira Ioane starts at six and Sam Cane at seven, with Ardie Savea at the back of the scrum.
“We’re really excited about this match, it’s a big statement game for us and we know we have to respond from the Irish performance,” Foster said.
“We’ve had to manage the physical and mental load for the players, so have changed things up a bit for this final Test to maximise the energy within the whole group.
“That’s not a reflection on the guys that haven’t been selected, it’s more a chance to bring some fresh players in, and that’s going to be vital for us.”
The match is a dress rehearsal for the opening game of the 2023 Rugby World Cup in Paris, where France have not beaten the All Blacks since 1973.
“They (France) are a young, formidable team building in confidence and they’ve been targeting this match so it’s a huge way for us to finish our tour,” Foster said.
New Zealand team
Jordie Barrett, Will Jordan, Rieko Ioane, Quinn Tupaea, George Bridge, Richie Mo’unga, Aaron Smith, Ardie Savea, Sam Cane, Akira Ioane, Samuel Whitelock (captain), Brodie Retallick, Nepo Laulala, Dane Coles, Joe Moody. Reserves: Samisoni Taukei’aho, George Bower, Ofa Tuungafasi, Tupou Vaa’i, Shannon Frizell, Brad Weber, Damian McKenzie, David Havili.
Paulo
Roar Rookie
Sadly yes…
Soap Dodger
Roar Rookie
Based on the evidence of recent weeks, I do not think they will need to worry about playing many games at the World Cup.
Soap Dodger
Roar Rookie
Your instincts were spot-on Paulo.
Tim J
Roar Rookie
:thumbup:
WEST
Roar Guru
Haha I’ll take it :silly:
Tim J
Roar Rookie
Congratulations WEST… Waikato at home was always going to be tough, if it was in Nelson then the Marko’s would probably win. Taking nothing away from Waikato, finishing second in the regular season. Then defeating the defending Champions, Kudos!
WEST
Roar Guru
I thought.. oh here we go again!! In the last few minutes. Tasman have this ability to just not go away. But Waikato got the win.. Finally! It’s been awhile :stoked:
Tim J
Roar Rookie
3 points in it… I am proud of the team, 3 finals in a row! Winning two of three, a great achievement. Congratulations Waikato and to all their supporters, well deserved so no complaints here.
WEST
Roar Guru
I don’t get this configuration? Taranaki have beaten everyone! Including Waikato and Tasman? They need to start sorting this out. It’s not making much sense.. To me anyway?
WEST
Roar Guru
Tasman nearly clinched it at the end.. Well done Waikato :silly: Tasman are a tough team to beat :thumbup:
Diesel 2.0
Roar Rookie
Yes very true Faith but he was one and not the other at first. Then he evolved in to becoming both. Roger will be too small to be a crash ball runner and his feet will not be enough to be a stepping centre also because of the defensive shape and speed.
WEST
Roar Guru
Oh crap! Bloody Tasman! :shocked:
Tim J
Roar Rookie
I know… I need to get away from reality WEST, as Tasman not looking good. But they have done well for a small region winning the last two seasons :thumbup:
WEST
Roar Guru
Josh Ioane Been looking wicked this year! Chiefs will be stoked to have him :thumbup:
WEST
Roar Guru
Haha.. meanwhile in the real world. Waikato looking good :silly:
Tim J
Roar Rookie
West… He is just a jealous and incompetent boy! His shirt does not need tucking in, just his bedding while sucking his thumb.
Tim J
Roar Rookie
PS … That is you when watching the Wallabies, lay off the juice and face reality for once.
Tim J
Roar Rookie
Yes! Hopefully we can hold the patience and discipline then bring it home! A great win earlier for Taranaki over Otago.
WEST
Roar Guru
Close game MK. :shocked: A lot of tactical kicking
WEST
Roar Guru
Panic stations.. whinging? You have NZ confused with Aussies? Blame game.. yep that’s definitely Australia :laughing: