The build-up to the second test between the All Blacks and France has intensified with the official squad announcements. Both coaching setups, led by Scott Robertson for New Zealand and Fabien Galthié for France, have revealed their hands, showcasing contrasting approaches to the crucial follow-up fixture. While Robertson contends with significant enforced absences, Galthié has opted for a sweeping rotation, making a substantial ten changes to his line-up.
Fabien Galthié`s decision to implement ten alterations is a bold statement, suggesting a national team `refresh` on an industrial scale. This widespread turnover hints at a strategic intent – perhaps assessing the depth of French talent ahead of future challenges, managing player fatigue after a demanding season, or simply a calculated tactical shift following the first encounter. It`s a move that ensures fresh legs and new combinations but also introduces an element of unpredictability, both for the French themselves and their opponents. Ten changes in a Test match is more than just tinkering; it`s a significant reset.
Across the pitch, Scott Robertson faces challenges born of necessity rather than selection preference. The All Blacks squad sees the confirmed absence of key figures Scott Barrett and Sevu Reece. Barrett, a powerful presence in the forward pack, and Reece, a dynamic threat on the wing, are significant losses. Their unavailability forces changes within the All Blacks structure and will undoubtedly impact game strategy, requiring others to step up and fill the voids left by these established performers. It`s a test of depth the All Blacks would likely prefer to navigate another way.
Despite the changes and absences, both squads feature plenty of familiar and exciting names ready to contest what promises to be a compelling second test. The lists below detail the full selections for the upcoming clash, scheduled for July 12th.
New Zealand Squad:
- 1. Ethan de Groot
- 2. Codie Taylor
- 3. Fletcher Newell
- 4. Patrick Tuipulotu
- 5. Fabian Holland
- 6. Tupou Vaa`i
- 7. Ardie Savea
- 8. Christian Lio-Willie
- 9. Cam Roigard
- 10. Beauden Barrett
- 11. Rieko Ioane
- 12. Jordie Barrett
- 13. Billy Proctor
- 14. Emoni Narawa
- 15. Will Jordan
Reserves:
- 16. Samisoni Taukei`aho
- 17. Ollie Norris
- 18. Pasilio Tosi
- 19. Samipeni Finau
- 20. Du`Plessis Kirifi
- 21. Cortez Ratima
- 22. Timoci Tavatavanawai
- 23. Damian McKenzie
France Squad:
- 1. Baptiste Erdocio
- 2. Gaëtan Barlot
- 3. Georges-Henri Colombe
- 4. Joshua Brennan
- 5. Matthias Halagahu
- 6. Jacobus van Tonder
- 7. Esteban Abadie
- 8. Pierre Bouchanat
- 9. Nolann Le Garrec
- 10. Joris Segonds
- 11. Emilien Gailleton
- 12. Pierre-Louis Barassi
- 13. Nicolas Depoortère
- 14. Théo Attissogbé
- 15. Léo Barré
Reserves:
- 16. Pierre Bourgarit
- 17. Paul Malliet
- 18. Régis Montagne
- 19. Romain Taofifénua
- 20. Cameron Woki
- 21. Bastien Vergnes-Taillefer
- 22. Antoine Hastoy
- 23. Thibaud Daubagna
These contrasting selection strategies – France`s large-scale rotation versus New Zealand`s forced adjustments – set up a fascinating dynamic for the second test. Both teams will be testing new combinations under pressure. How effectively each side adapts to their altered personnel will likely be a decisive factor in the outcome of this highly anticipated encounter.
