All Blacks go all out for Boks
Rugby
New Zealand’s matchday 23, with over 1000 Tests of international experience, has been given the task of taking on the current world champions South Africa in a match that will complete preparations for the 2023 World Cup in France.A starting forward pack with over 500 Test caps is set to be bolstered by a reserves bench featuring six forwards and two backs.
In the run on side for the first time this year, Luke Jacobson is set to earn his 15th Test cap, playing in the number six jersey as part a loose forward trio that also features captain Sam Cane and Ardie Savea.
A packed ground of nearly 82,000 fans are set to watch the first meeting between the All Blacks and South Africa at Twickenham since the 2015 World Cup semi-final.
“This is our final game before the World Cup and this test is critical in our preparation,” said head coach Ian Foster.
“With just two weeks to go, it’s an important opportunity to get us battle-ready for the start of the tournament.
“These games are always intense and physically challenging, and I’m sure this one will be no different.”
The All Blacks caught World Cup holders the Springboks cold when they last met in July, with New Zealand winning 35-20 in Auckland.
The All Blacks launch the World Cup against hosts France, another of the favourites to take this year's title, at the Stade de France on September 8.
New Zealand and South Africa are in the same half of the draw for this edition. Depending on pool results, the only teams to win the men's Rugby World Cup three times could meet each other again in the quarterfinals.
New Zealand: 15 Beauden Barrett, 14 Will Jordan, 13 Rieko Ioane, 12 Jordie Barrett, 11 Mark Telea, 10 Richie Mo’unga, 9 Aaron Smith, 8 Ardie Savea, 7 Sam Cane (Captain), 6 Luke Jacobson, 5 Samuel Whitelock, 4 Scott Barrett, 3 Tyrel Lomax, 2 Dane Coles, 1 Ethan de Groot.
Replacements: 16 Samisoni Taukei’aho, 17 Tamaiti Williams, 18 Fletcher Newell, 19 Tupou Vaa’i, 20 Josh Lord, 21 Dalton Papali’i, 22 Cam Roigard, 23 Anton Lienert-Brown.
Date: Friday, August 25
Venue: Twickenham Stadium, London
Kick-off: 19.30 (20.30 SA time)
Referee: Matthew Carley (England)
Assistant referees: Christophe Ridley (England), Craig Evans (Wales)
– Rugby365/SuperSport