mens
international
Jordie Barrett has been ruled out of the second Bledisloe Cup Test in Sydney with a calf strain, prompting an intriguing change in All black people‘ match day 23.
After initially being named on the bench, Timoci Tavatavanawai will now make his first test start in the black number 12 jersey. Chay Fihaki, a recent replacement for Fehi Fineanganofo, took his place on the bench.
If he takes the field, it will be Fihaki’s first minutes in the international arena. The 193cm outside back is known for his aerial ability, which has become a prominent talking point for the All Blacks in recent seasons. Six years into his Crusaders In his career, Fihaki covers both the right wing and full-back and has a powerful boot.
Tavatavanawai enters the starting XV with an opportunity to prove his fitness after All Blacks head coach Dave Rennie challenged him to raise his standards in that area of his game. Rennie recently described Tavatavanwai’s fitness during Super Rugby Pacific season as “excellent”, despite Highlanders the co-captain who collects the most votes for player of the year in the competition.
With the adjustments, Rennie resisted the urge to shift starting center Quinn Tupae to the No.12 jersey, leaving experienced center Rieko Ioane on the bench. Ioane is likely to cover the midfield now, after initially being named as outside back cover.