"World Class Jordie Barrett" - 5 Best All Blacks from Summer Series against France

New Zealand managed a narrow 31-27 win in a tense first Test, despite some defensive wobbles and disallowed tries that kept the game on a knife’s edge. In the second Test, the All Blacks found their groove, delivering a dominant 43-17 performance to take control of the series and silence the home crowd. The final match was a close, hard-fought battle, with the All Blacks overcoming a strong French challenge to secure a 29-19 victory and seal the unbeaten series.

While nowhere near as weakened a side as Les Bleus, Scott Robertson tried some new players and rotated for the three games. Here are our best 5 performances from All Blacks across the whole series.

Dutch-born Fabian Holland’s performances throughout the series were impressive and consistent. In his debut match for the All Blacks, he showed tremendous work ethic, making 15 tackles and being a key target during lineouts. Early on, he snatched a loose ball, setting the tone for his composed performance. Staying error-free, Holland proved that calm and steady play can make a big impact, especially on debut. In all three games, he demonstrated a strong work rate, especially on defence with a high tackle count and reliable lineout skills.

He quickly adapted to the international level, showing composure and effectiveness without making mistakes. Beyond defence, Holland contributed well to the All Blacks’ attack, linking up smoothly with teammates and playing an important role in ball distribution.

Throughout the series, Will Jordan made a significant impact, especially after shifting to the right wing early in the opening match. Even though a potential hat-trick was ruled out due to an alleged obstruction, he still crossed the line twice and was one of the standout performers, consistently working hard to get into position for crucial plays.

In the second Test, his defensive awareness was on display as he effectively cleaned up in the backfield, including a vital save of a grubber kick in the in-goal area. He also scored his 41st international try by bursting onto a well-timed pass from Jordie Barrett. Later in the game, some strong and determined runs aimed to exploit a tiring French defence.

During the final game, he delivered once more by scoring when the team was trailing 10-0, providing an important momentum shift. Operating from the right edge, he made three linebreaks, the most in the game, and contributed solid defensive work with timely and accurate tackles.

Coming off an outstanding season with Moana Pasifika, Ardie Savea brought his usual energy and leadership to the All Blacks throughout the Test series against France. In the first Test, he was a workhorse, leading the team with 19 carries and making some powerful runs down the right side that kept the French defence on edge.

The second was a special one for the captain as he returned to his hometown of Wellington. He started strongly with some impactful runs through the middle, although a turnover momentarily set the team back. Savea quickly bounced back, using smart play to help set up Cam Roigard’s opening try. He also powered over for a try from a maul and made a crucial break that led to the All Blacks’ fourth try, adding a vital ruck steal along the way.

In the final Test, a couple of mistakes, like a risky chip kick inside his own 22 and a knock-on returning a kick-off, cost them slightly. However, by the end of the game, Savea’s class was clear. His trademark breakdown steals and strong carries showed why he remains a key leader and driver for the team.

Returning to international rugby after a sabbatical with Leinster, Barrett quickly found his footing. In the opening match, his sharp support play nearly led to a try early on, and he later scored a crucial one just before halftime. His involvement in the All Blacks’ sweeping attacking moves helped break down the French defence.

In the second Test, Barrett played a key role in the team’s offense but was caught out a few times in defence, beaten on the outside on a couple of occasions. A risky pass near the French tryline resulted in a turnover and a threatening counterattack, only stopped by an illegal tackle. After a HIA, he returned in the second half and delivered a well-timed assist for Rieko Ioane’s try.

Coming off the bench in the final Test, his impact was clear. A crucial try-saving tackle prevented the French from scoring early, and he later set up the match-winning try for Brodie McAlister. Barrett’s return brought fresh energy and creativity to the All Blacks.

Patrick Tuipulotu didn’t feature in the first Test but quickly established a strong partnership with Fabian Holland in the next two matches. In the second game, he put in a commanding performance, making an early lineout steal and consistently securing multiple catches. He was the main lineout target in the first half and showed his power with some strong ball carries, finishing the game with seven successful lineout takes.

The third Test saw him improve at the breakdown, as the pack improved as time went on. Tuipulotu was a reliable ball carrier throughout the game, consistently gaining ground and driving through contact. His 16 carries were the second most in the team (only behind Savea), showing his importance in carrying the All Blacks forward against the French defence.