All Blacks Make Major Roster Overhaul for Third France Test

All Blacks Prepare for Final Test Against France with Lineup Changes

Assistant coach Jason Holland confirmed on Sunday that the All Blacks will make several changes to their lineup for the third and final Test against France. However, he emphasized that there is no lack of motivation among the players to secure a clean sweep of the series.

In the second Test held in Wellington, the All Blacks dominated an under-strength French team with a score of 43-17, securing the series victory ahead of schedule. This win followed a narrow 31-27 victory in the first Test in Dunedin, where New Zealand made only two adjustments to their starting lineup.

Holland spoke to reporters the day after the win, highlighting that the team plans to give all 35 members of the squad a chance to play in the upcoming match. "Our goal was to ensure everyone gets some experience in these three games, and I don't think that will change," he said.

For the third Test in Hamilton, the team is expected to include several uncapped players. These include hooker Brodie McAlister, loose forwards Samipeni Finau and Luke Jacobson, as well as backs Noah Hotham, Ruben Love, and Anton Lienert-Brown.

Holland expressed satisfaction with the performance in Wellington, where the All Blacks built a commanding 29-3 halftime lead over a young and inexperienced French side. The French had left many of their first-choice players at home, which allowed New Zealand to capitalize on their weaknesses.

"We know we still have a lot of areas to improve," said Holland. "But there's no lack of motivation to keep getting better, and I'm sure the players will bring something new when they get their chance."

Despite the strong start, the second half saw tighter French defense leading to mistakes by the All Blacks. Both teams scored 14 points in the second half, and Holland acknowledged that the team could have finished the game more decisively.

"We felt in the last 20 minutes we could have put them away more effectively," he said. "The challenge in coaching today is to find variations that don't complicate things too much."

Injuries and Squad Adjustments

Tupou Vaa'i, who has been a standout performer in the series, is currently a doubt for the third Test. He failed an initial head injury assessment after being substituted in the second half of the previous match. Vaa'i has been instrumental in the series, scoring tries in both Tests. His move from lock to back row has proven successful, and Holland praised his versatility.

"He's a big man in the lineout and also quick around the park," said Holland. "He likes to be physical defensively and has all the attributes of a number six. It's exciting to have him in this role."

Meanwhile, wing Caleb Clarke is out of action for five to six weeks after suffering an ankle injury during training. This means he will miss the opening two Rugby Championship Tests in Argentina on August 16 and 23.

With these adjustments, the All Blacks are preparing for a final Test that promises to be competitive but also an opportunity for younger players to gain valuable international experience.