02 Jul 2026, 14:51
All Blacks open Nations Championship against France with Rubén Lava as starter
- Ruben Lava starts at fly-half for France, with Mackenzie playing fullback
- Ardie Savea captains the side and will debut at lock, replacing Numia Ta Finengaho
- In the opening round of the Nations Championship against France, the back row features Tokie Yaponia, Sione Vaiensuburzi, Kardiffi Ta Kordovi
In the match against France in the Nations Championship in Christchurch New Zealand, the starting lineup sees Ruben Lava take the field at fly-half.
The starting halfback pairing features Deiv Rennie, who will be the first to start at scrum-half for the Hurricanes, replacing Beauden Barrett at Damian McKenzie. After the match, it is expected that Lava will return to his usual role at Super Rugby, where he has been playing for the Hurricanes.
Lava completes the backline alongside Komu Roigardom at the back (scrumhalf) and Jordie Barrett in the center. Mackenzie will take over at fly-half, while Beauden Barrett will not be available for match 23.
The second-round selection also includes changes to the forwards: Jexav’ier Numia comes in for Fehi Finengaho. Ardie Savea remains as captain for the 7th round, while the other lock is Sem Darri and Joss Lord; the loosehead prop is Scott Barrett, who will start after being sidelined by injury.
In the back row for the match against France, Will Jordan and Kelvin Clark. In the center — Jordie Barrett and Tupaia, and at third line — Lukey Deijkbson (open side) and Pieter Lakai (blindside). At hooker, Cody Taylor will feature in his 107th test, the same as Asafo Aumua, who will make his first appearance from the bench.
The next round sees the same lineup for the following matches: against Italy, against Ireland, against Australia — against Ireland, against England, against Wales, against Scotland, against Argentina — against South Africa.
Tags: Sport