All Blacks team to face Wallabies - Ardie Savea named captain for Bledisloe Cup clash

New Zealand head into the contest looking to defend the Bledisloe Cup, which they have held since 2003, while also chasing vital points in the Lipovitan-D Rugby Championship. The clash comes after a disappointing defeat to South Africa, with Eden Park set to host another fierce trans-Tasman battle. Kick-off is 5:05pm (NZST), live on Sky Sport.

Five players return to the squad after missing the recent Springbok Tests. Halfbacks Cam Roigard and Cortez Ratima are back from injury, while lock Patrick Tuipulotu takes a place on the bench. Caleb Clarke makes his first All Blacks appearance of the season on the left wing following an ankle injury, shifting Leroy Carter across to the right. Will Jordan starts at fullback, with Damian McKenzie providing impact from the bench. Loose forward Peter Lakai will wear the black jersey for the first time this year, joining the reserves.

With Scott Barrett sidelined by a shoulder problem, Fabian Holland partners Tupou Vaa’i in the second row, while Codie Taylor returns at hooker to start his 102nd Test.

Head coach Scott Robertson said the squad is determined to respond after their last outing and are fully aware of the importance of this fixture.

“With all teams being two from four in this Rugby Championship, we all have everything to play for in these final two rounds,” Robertson said. “We are preparing for a strong Australian side and understand the importance of this match and the Bledisloe Cup. There is a lot to play for on Saturday evening.”

Robertson emphasised the focus on consistency and execution. “The ultimate in any sporting teams is to be consistent and that's what you look for. We have played some great rugby in the majority of games, but not enough. It's the execution in key moments. We have got to execute those opportunities that we create, and be disciplined for longer.”

He also highlighted the responsibility the All Blacks feel to their supporters. “My job is to lead this team, so I'd probably think more about them than myself. There are a lot of shareholders in our country that we serve. They let us know what they think, and so they should. We've talked about that. Our job is to serve our people and that's always been our focus, so now we can do it again on Saturday.”

Replacements:
16. Samisoni Taukei’aho (37)
17. Tamaiti Williams (21)
18. Fletcher Newell (29)
19. Patrick Tuipulotu (54)
20. Peter Lakai (3)
21. Cortez Ratima (16)
22. Quinn Tupaea (19)
23. Damian McKenzie (68)

Unavailable for selection: Scott Barrett (shoulder), Ollie Norris (back), Emoni Narawa (rib fracture), Timoci Tavatavanawai (fractured radius).