Beauden Barrett starts as All Blacks ring changes for Fiji Test in US
New Zealand on Thursday made 11 changes to the team to face Fiji in San Diego, with Beauden Barrett starting at fullback, a debut for centre Billy Proctor and five uncapped players on the bench.
The two-time world player of the year sparked the All Blacks comeback in Auckland on Saturday after they had trailed 17-13 in the second half. "It was an incredible cameo and now it's an opportunity for us to build depth in different positions." Robertson said the newcomers would have no easy ride against a dangerous Fiji, who beat Australia in last year's World Cup and exited in a narrow quarter-final loss to England."It's a hell of a great opportunity for the debutants to show their talent," Robertson said.
Fijian Drua flyhalf Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula is promoted from the bench, pushing Castres playmaker Vilimoni Botitu to fullback in place of Ilaisa Droasese.Fiji's starting side features six players from the Drua Super Rugby team, six from French Top 14 clubs and three from the English Premiership.
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Beauden Barrett on the All Blacks bench for first England TestBeauden Barrett on the All Blacks bench for first England Test
Read more »
All Blacks boss ponders where to play ‘class’ Beauden BarrettBarrett played a key role off the bench to help the All Blacks come from behind and seal a series win over England in Auckland on Saturday.
Read more »
Beauden brilliance steers All Blacks to series victoryBeauden Barrett played a key role off the bench to help the All Blacks come from behind and seal a series win over England in Auckland on Saturday.
Read more »
Beauden starts for rejigged All BlacksThe All Blacks make 11 changes to face Fiji in San Diego on Friday, with Beauden Barrett at fullback, a debut for centre Billy Proctor and five uncapped players on the bench.
Read more »
All Blacks elect Barrett as new captainScott Robertson named a new All Blacks captain as he unveiled his squad to face England in a two-Test series next month.
Read more »
Scott Barrett named All Blacks captain ahead of England TestsScott Barrett was named All Blacks captain by coach Scott Robertson as he unveiled his squad for a two-Test series against England in July.
Read more »