Leicester Fainga’anuku named in All Blacks back row squad

By the Editorial Team · Wednesday, October 28, 2026

New Zealand rugby coach Dave Rennie has named a 36-man squad for the upcoming Nations Championship matches against Scotland, Wales, and England, including Leicester Fainga’anuku’s shift to loose forward and several players returning from injury or awaiting their first test caps. The All Blacks enter the series unbeaten and face a tough challenge with key absences, aiming to build on their strong performances from the Bledisloe Cup and domestic competitions.

New Zealand rugby coach Dave Rennie has announced a 36-man squad for the upcoming Nations Championship matches in Britain, featuring Leicester Fainga’anuku’s return as a loose forward. Fainga’anuku, who has earned 12 test caps primarily as a back, has transitioned from his earlier roles as a wing and center to playing in the back row for the Crusaders in Super Rugby this year, demonstrating notable versatility.

The All Blacks will face Scotland on November 8, Wales on November 15, and England on November 22. New Zealand enters the series unbeaten, having secured wins against France, Italy, and Ireland during their home fixtures in July.

Rennie’s squad includes two players yet to receive their first test caps—prop Saula Ma’u and flyhalf Josh Jacomb. Additionally, back-rower Christian Lio-Willie returns to international duty for the first time this year alongside lock Jamie Hannah, who has one test appearance. Several players are recalled following injury absences, including centers Jordie Barrett, Quinn Tupaea, and Anton Lienert-Brown; flyhalf Richie Mo’unga; back-rowers Ethan Blackadder and Anton Segner; hooker Asafo Aumua; and winger Fehi Fineanganfo. Winger Chay Fihaki, who made his debut in New Zealand’s recent match against Australia, also remains in the squad.

Coach Rennie highlighted the strength of the team, expressing confidence in the players recalled from the National Provincial Championship. He acknowledged the challenge posed by consecutive weekend tests against three of rugby’s most formidable and historically significant teams, noting the passionate home crowds they will face. Rennie emphasized the All Blacks’ intent to build on their recent Bledisloe Cup performances during this demanding series.

Notable absences from the squad include several key players sidelined due to injury or personal reasons, namely Ardie Savea, Samisoni Taukei’aho, Shannon Frizell, Tyrel Lomax, Leroy Carter, Ruben Love, Luke Jacobson, Caleb Clarke, Ollie Norris, and Simon Parker. Their absence marks a period of adjustment as the All Blacks prepare for a key phase of their international campaign.

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