Scott Robertson Reveals All Blacks Roster With 5 Debutants Vs. France Rugby
Scott Robertson Reveals All Blacks Roster With 5 Debutants Vs. France Rugby
Scott Robertson names 33-man All Blacks squad to face France, featuring five debutants and key returns, including Quinn Tupaea and Samisoni Taukei’aho.
New Zealand head coach Scott Robertson has unveiled a 33-man squad for the upcoming three-test series against France.
Naming five debutants in the squad, Robertson has blended experience with a new wave of talent in the form of Brodie McAlister, Ollie Norris, Fabian Holland, Du’Plessis Kirifi and Timoci Tavatavanawai.
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In addition to the new caps, there are call-ups for Samisoni Taukei’aho and Quinn Tupaea, who have yet to feature in a Robertson squad.
Discussing his selection, Robertson was keen to stress the importance of continuity and development.
“Around three-quarters of the players named today were part of our squad for the 2024 Northern Tour, which is important because we want to continue to build on the rugby we were playing at the end of last year," Robertson said. "We have balanced that with an exciting group of new and returning players who have performed during Super Rugby Pacific."
Naming a three-man leadership group, Robertson once again has named Scott Barrett as captain, with Ardie Savea and Jordie Barrett as his vice captains.
“Scott’s leadership is hugely valued in this group and well complemented by Ardie and Jordie," Robertson said. "They will play a vital role, along with the wider player leadership group, in supporting the transition of the new players into the environment and imparting their experience to ensure the squad is set up for success.
“For the five uncapped players – Ollie, Brodie, Fabian, Du’Plessis and Timoci – this is a particularly special day. These players have all impressed us with their talent and work ethic and have earned their opportunity to be part of this All Blacks squad.
"We know that each of these players possesses the ability to make their mark in the black jersey, and we look forward to working with them over the coming weeks."
On the topic of returning duo of Taukei’aho and Tupaea, Robertson paid tribute to their Super Rugby form as the key driver in their recall.
“These players have both had to work hard following the disappointment of long-term injuries and have been outstanding during Super Rugby Pacific this year," he said. "We are thrilled to be able to welcome them back into the squad.”
Perhaps the most interesting storyline in the squad selection is that of Dutch-born and raised Fabian Holland.
The 22-year-old Highlanders lock moved to New Zealand at 16 years old to pursue his rugby interest and immediately became a star player at Christchurch Boys High School.
At 6-foot-9 and 124 kilograms, the Castricumse Rugby Club product brings unique size and athleticism to the All Blacks' second-row stocks.
Joining his Highlanders teammate in earning a call-up is former Fijian U20 star Timoci Tavatavanawai.
Earning rave reviews and comparisons to the great Ma’a Nonu, the 6-foot-2 and 111-kilogram utility back brings both power and versatility to the All Blacks backline with an ability to cover both center and wing.
In full, the All Blacks squad for the three-test series with France appears as follows:
All Blacks 2025 Roster
Forwards
Codie Taylor (Crusaders), Samisoni Taukei’aho (Chiefs), Brodie McAlister (Chiefs), Ethan de Groot (Highlanders), Tamaiti Williams (Crusaders), Ollie Norris (Chiefs), Tyrel Lomax (Hurricanes), Fletcher Newell (Crusaders), Pasilio Tosi (Hurricanes), Scott Barrett (Crusaders, c), Patrick Tuipulotu (Blues), Tupou Vaa’i (Chiefs), Fabian Holland (Highlanders), Samipeni Finau (Chiefs), Ardie Savea (Moana Pasifika), Du’Plessis Kirifi (Hurricanes), Wallace Sititi (Chiefs), Luke Jacobson (Chiefs)
Backs
Cameron Roigard (Hurricanes), Cortez Ratima (Chiefs), Noah Hotham (Crusaders), Beauden Barrett (Blues), Damian McKenzie (Chiefs), Anton Lienert-Brown (Chiefs), Jordie Barrett (Hurricanes), Rieko Ioane (Blues), Quinn Tupaea (Chiefs), Billy Proctor (Hurricanes), Timoci Tavatavanawai (Highlanders), Caleb Clarke (Blues), Sevu Reece (Crusaders), Will Jordan (Crusaders), Ruben Love (Hurricanes)
*Injury Cover: Christian Lio-Willie (Crusaders), Emoni Narawa (Chiefs)
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