All Blacks head coach Ian Foster has named his squad for the second Lipovitan-D Rugby Championship Test against South Africa at Ellis Park Stadium.
Uncapped prop Fletcher Newell has been introduced on Matchday 23 as front-row cover, while props Ethan de Groot and Tyrel Lomax have been named alongside the competition. They are joined by hooker Samisoni Taukeiaho, while 69-Test veteran Codie Taylor returns on Day 23 as cover.
Blind full-back Shannon Frizell has also moved to full-back after being used as an impact player during the first test in Mbombela, marking his 14th appearance in the number six shirt. He is joined in the back row by Ardie Savea and captain Sam Cane, who will overtake Jerome Kaino (81) as the third most capped All Black loose forward in Tests.
The only change made to the bottom line is in the first five eighths. Richie Mo’unga will keep the No.10 jersey for the first time this season as he moves closer to Carlos Spencer (291) for sixth on the All Blacks’ all-time points list.
“Belief and confidence remain high in our group, which is working incredibly hard this week,” Foster said. “Playing at Ellis Park is always a special occasion for any All Black team, and this weekend will be no different.
“On top of that, the Freedom Cup is on the line, which makes it a challenge that everyone is looking forward to.”
All Blacks Matchday 23 (Test leaders in brackets):
1. Ethan the Great (5)
2. Samisoni Taukei’aho (12)
3. Tyrell Lomax (15)
4. Samuel Whitelock (135)
5. Scott Barrett (51)
6. Shannon Frizell (18)
7. Sam Cane © (81)
8. Ardie Savea (63)
9. Aaron Smith (106)
10. Richie Mo’unga (36)
11. Caleb Clarke (6)
12. David Havili (17)
13. Rieko Ioane (51)
14. Will Jordan (16)
15. Jordie Barrett (40)
16. Codie Taylor (69)
17. George Bower (15)
18. Fletcher Newell *
19. Tupou Vaa’i (13)
20. Akira John (15)
21. Finlay Christie (7)
22. Beauden Barrett (105)
23. Quinn Tupea (10)
*Debut