Scott Robertson has unveiled his first squad as head coach of the All Blacks, naming Crusaders lock Scott Barrett as the new captain. Barrett will lead the team in upcoming matches against England and Fiji, taking over from flanker Sam Cane.
Scott Barrett Takes the Helm
Barrett, who is joined by his brothers Beauden and Jordie in the 32-man squad, has been a key figure for the Crusaders under Robertson’s previous tenure. His leadership skills and tactical acumen make him a fitting choice for the role. Barrett’s appointment marks a new chapter for the All Blacks as they prepare for tests in Dunedin and Auckland against England on July 6 and 13, followed by a match against Fiji in San Diego.
Fresh Faces in the Squad
Robertson’s squad features five uncapped players, bringing fresh talent to the team:
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George Bell (hooker)
Pasilio Tosi (prop)
Wallace Sititi (back row)
Cortez Ratima (scrum-half)
Billy Proctor (centre)
Veteran scrum-half TJ Perenara makes a return after missing the previous year’s tournament due to injury. Patrick Tuipulotu also returns, adding experience as one of the three specialist locks.
Leadership and Experience
Ardie Savea and Jordie Barrett have been appointed vice-captains, supporting Scott Barrett’s leadership. The squad is a blend of seasoned players and new talent, aimed at playing a dynamic style of rugby.
“As a coaching group, we are excited about the squad we’ve selected. We know it’s a group that can play the style of rugby we want the All Blacks to play in 2024,” said Robertson. “Having that existing connection to Scott was important. He’s tactically astute, he leads from the front, and he’s got the respect of the players and coaches.”
Notable Omissions and Retirements
Sam Cane, who is set to retire from international rugby at the end of 2024, is currently sidelined due to injury. Another notable absence is number eight Hoskins Sotutu, who starred in the Blues’ Super Rugby Pacific campaign. In his place, young talent Wallace Sititi has been selected as Savea’s back-up.
The squad also faces the challenge of filling the void left by the retired Brodie Retallick and Sam Whitelock in the second row. Developing players like Tupou Vaa’i and the experienced Tuipulotu, who recently led the Blues to victory, are expected to step up.
All Blacks Roster for England and Fiji Series
Forwards: Asafo Aumua, Codie Taylor, George Bell; Ethan De Groot, Tyrel Lomax, Fletcher Newell, Pasilio Tosi, Ofa Tu’ungafasi, Tamaiti Williams; Scott Barrett, Tupou Vaa’i, Patrick Tuipulotu; Ethan Blackadder, Samipeni Finau, Luke Jacobson, Dalton Papali’i, Ardie Savea, Wallace Sititi.
Backs: Finlay Christie, TJ Perenara, Cortez Ratima; Beauden Barrett, Damian McKenzie; Jordie Barrett, Rieko Ioane, Anton Lienert-Brown, Billy Proctor; Caleb Clarke, Emoni Narawa, Stephen Perofeta, Sevu Reece, Mark Tele’a.
Looking Ahead
The All Blacks will return to action for the first time since the World Cup, with expectations high under Scott Robertson’s leadership. Fans eagerly await to see how the new captain and fresh faces will shape the team’s performance in the upcoming series.
This new era of All Blacks rugby promises excitement and innovation, with Scott Barrett leading a squad ready to face international challenges head-on.
