The All Black have made a significant change to their staring XV with Beauden Barrett at first five for Damian McKenzie who moves to the reserves to face the Wallabies in Wellington.
Other starting changes include TJ Perenara at halfback with Cortez Ratima moving to the reserves while Anton Lienert-Brown predictably moves into the centres with Jordie Barrett out injured.
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The forward pack is the same which started in the first Bledisloe test in Sydney last weekend with experienced lock Patrick Tuipulotu into the reserves for Sam Darry.
A significant milestone for Sam Cane comes up in probably his last test match for the All Blacks. The former captain plays his 100th test for the side.
For both Cane and Perenara, this will also be the final test they will play in New Zealand before they begin their contracts in Japan in 2025.
All Blacks Head Coach Scott Robertson said this knowledge is a huge motivator for the team on Saturday night.
“This will be a particularly special night for Sam and TJ and the boys will put in a performance that honours their contribution to this team. Sam will be joining an exclusive club of All Black centurions, which is testament to his fortitude and work ethic.
As a Wellington man and the most-capped Hurricane of all time, we know that TJ is a crowd favourite in the capital and we look forward to him expressing himself on the field in front of friends and whānau at home.”
Robertson also stated that he believes McKenzie is very capable off the bench.
“Damian McKenzie can provide experienced cover at both first-five and fullback, as Beauden has previously, and it is great to bring David Havili in to complete the 23, providing strong depth across the back line. We are excited about the opportunity this week to put in a complete performance against the Wallabies in Wellington.”
The All Blacks haven't won at Sky Stadium in Wellington since 2018, but there has been a couple of draws along the way.
The match kicks-off at 7.05pm at Sky Stadium on Saturday.
ALL BLACKS: Will Jordan, Sevu Reece, Rieko Ioane, Jordie Barrett, Caleb Clarke, Beauden Barrett, TJ Perenara, Ardie Savea, Sam Cane, Wallace Sititi, Tupou Vaa’i, Scott Barrett (captain), Tyrel Lomax, Codie Taylor, Ethan de Groot . Reserves: Asafo Aumua, Pasilio Tosi, Tamaiti Williams, Patrick Tuipulotu, Luke Jacobson, Cortez Ratima, Damian McKenzie, David Havili.
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