Ardie Savea returns to captain New Zealand in first South Africa Test
Ardie Savea will return to captain New Zealand in their opening Test match against South Africa in Johannesburg this Saturday, as Ruben Love retains the fly-half jersey.
The powerful number eight was rested for the preceding tour games but reclaims his starting spot at Ellis Park for the first of four clashes with the Springboks.
Meanwhile, head coach Dave Rennie has opted to keep faith with Love at number 10 following the youngster’s impressive showings during the Nations Championship in July.
This bold selection means there is no place in the 23-man matchday squad for seasoned veterans Beauden Barrett or the recently recalled Richie Mo’unga.
Injury boosts for the visitors
The All Blacks have received a significant fitness boost ahead of the clash, with Cam Roigard, Will Jordan and Damian McKenzie all successfully overcoming injury concerns to start.
They face a formidable challenge this weekend against the reigning world number one side, who will be backed by a fiercely passionate crowd at their spiritual home.
“After all the build up and anticipation, our whole touring squad is excited to get this first Test underway.”
“We have selected a balanced mix of big match, experienced players and younger players who have earned the right to play in this first Test,” Rennie added.
New Zealand team to face South Africa
The head coach noted that recent franchise fixtures had perfectly prepared his newer faces for the intense physical pressure of South African rugby.
- New Zealand XV: D McKenzie; W Jordan, Q Tupaea, J Barrett, J Moorby; R Love, C Roigard; E de Groot, C Taylor, T Lomax, J Lord, F Holland, T Vaa’i, L Jacobson, A Savea (capt).
- Replacements: A Aumua, G Bower, F Newell, A Segner, P Lakai, K Preston, A Lienert-Brown, L Carter.