All Blacks manager Scott Robertson has embarked on a new era, handing out four Test debuts for New Zealand’s season opening match against France in Dunedin.
Robertson nominated Christian Rio Willie and Fabian Holland at No. 8 and Rock respectively on Thursday, with Prop Orier Norris and Flanker Duplesis Kilifi on the bench.
Lio-Willie is perhaps the most surprising inclusion, with the Crusades backlower originally only being brought to wider teams as a cover for injuries.
However, the knee injury to Wallace Cityty in No. 8, which ruled out him throughout the series with France, created an opportunity for Lio-Willie to appear in the calculations, and he now runs out with the Netherlands.
This is one of the more surprising stories these days, considering that the Highlanders second lower left Holland as a 16-year-old to pursue his rugby dream in New Zealand.
He pairs up with skipper Scott Barrett in the second row, but Tupou Vaai begins in sixth to show how Robertson wants to play.
“This is a huge moment for these guys and their families. We’re all excited for them,” Robertson said of his four debutants.
“For Fabian and Christian, making their debut in front of the crowds in Dunedin’s house is special. I’m sure Fabian’s Highlanders supporters and Christian Otago fans will be in full existence.
“Ollie and Du’plessis are showing their classes at Super Rugby again this year and know they’re ready.”
Meanwhile, Lio-Willie’s participation pushed Ardie Savea back into his conventional No. 7 position, with the veterans spending most of the past few years at All Blacks No. 8.
Meanwhile, Borden Barrett pits Damien Mackenzie for his first crack at fly half, but Rieko Ione returns to the wing to accommodate informed Billy Proctor.
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Will Jordan, Seven Reese, Billy Proctor, Jordie Barrett, Rieko Ione, Borden Barrett and Cam Rogerd. Christian Rio Willie, Ardy Saver, Tupou Vaai, Fabian Holland, Scott Barrett, Fletcher Newell, Cody Taylor and Ethan de Groot. Alternatives: Samisonison, Ollie Norris, Passilo Tost, Samipeni Finau, Du’plesis Kirifi, Cortez Ratima, Damian McKenzie, Quinn Tupaea.