The All Blacks selectors have announced their team lineup for the Lipovitan-D Rugby Championship Test against South Africa. This highly anticipated match will see five players taking the field for the first time in 2023. Brodie Retallick, Mark Telea, Samisoni Taukei’aho, and Will Jordan will be making their return to the side, while uncapped prop Tamaiti Williams has also been selected.
If Williams participates in the game, he will become the 1,209th All Black player. Hailing from Whangarei with roots in Kaeo, the 22-year-old could potentially become just the fifth Northland-born All Black in the last two decades.
Head coach Ian Foster expressed his excitement about the upcoming Test against South Africa, highlighting the mutual respect between the two nations and the epic battles that unfold on the field. He mentioned that it has been four years since they last faced South Africa in New Zealand, adding to the significance of the occasion.
Jordie Barrett has been named to play his 50th Test match, marking a remarkable milestone in his career. He will be lining up in the midfield at Go Media Stadium Mt Smart, the same city where he made his All Blacks debut back in 2017.
The match also presents opportunities for two other players to achieve personal milestones. Lock Scott Barrett is set to play his 200th first-class game, while Caleb Clarke could make his 100th first-class appearance as outside back cover.
Foster expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming support from the fans, mentioning that the game had sold out over a month ago. With over 31,000 fans expected to attend, the team is thrilled to have their support.
The All Blacks match day 23 is an exciting mix of experience and new talent. The team is eager to build upon their strong start in the Lipovitan-D Rugby Championship and face the challenge posed by South Africa. This highly anticipated matchup promises to be a spectacle for rugby fans around the world.
In summary, the All Blacks selectors have unveiled their team for the upcoming Test against South Africa. It includes the return of several players and the inclusion of a promising uncapped prop. The match will also witness significant personal milestones for Jordie Barrett, Scott Barrett, and Caleb Clarke. With the game selling out and a large number of fans expected to attend, the All Blacks are gearing up for an epic battle on the field.
