Dave Rennie’s tenure as head coach of the All Blacks is set to begin with a highly anticipated lineup announcement ahead of New Zealand’s opening test match against France in the Nations Championship this Saturday at Christchurch’s One NZ Stadium. The selection is expected to spotlight several players from the newly crowned Super Rugby Pacific champions, the Hurricanes, whose strong season has positioned many of their squad members as front-runners for inclusion.
Among the Hurricanes contingent, Ruben Love stands out as a near certainty for the coveted No. 10 jersey. Love’s dynamic playmaking, highlighted by his speed and attacking creativity, earned him high praise during the Hurricanes’ recent successful campaign, particularly in the playoffs and final. While he faces competition from seasoned All Blacks Damian McKenzie and Beauden Barrett, Love’s form has pushed him into contention for a starting role, with many anticipating Rennie to grant him a genuine opportunity under the new regime.
The Hurricanes’ dominance in Super Rugby has also put forward several other players vying for test selection. Hooker Asafo Aumua and props Xavier Numia, Tyrel Lomax, and Pasilio Tosi are all considered strong candidates for the front row positions. Numia, described as a mobile and dynamic loosehead prop, offers an energetic ball-carrying and offloading option coming off the bench, complementing incumbent loosehead Ethan de Groot’s scrummaging prowess. With Tamaiti Williams sidelined, the front row depth is under close scrutiny, and a potentially all-Hurricanes bench front row could feature.
In the loose forward unit, a mix including Ardie Savea (captain), Peter Lakai, Wallace Sititi, and newcomer Anton Segner is anticipated. Segner’s work rate and versatility at both No. 6 and No. 7 have impressed the coaching staff, aligning well with Rennie’s emphasis on repeated efforts and adaptability. While Ardie Savea’s experience anchors the loose trio, Sititi and Lakai bring athleticism and game-breaking ability, with Simon Parker and Tupou Vaa’i also in the discussion for their defensive strengths and lineout skills.
The midfield and back three selections remain competitive. Jordie Barrett appears likely at inside centre, with Billy Proctor also in contention to continue their Super Rugby midfield partnership. Proctor faces competition from Chiefs’ Quinn Tupaea, presenting a choice between power and finesse in midfield. At fullback, Will Jordan hopes to return from a calf injury, with Josh Moorby and Damian McKenzie as viable alternatives. The wing positions may feature Caleb Clarke and Josh Moorby, both noted for their speed and aerial ability. Meanwhile, Hurricanes wing Fehi Fineanganofo’s test future is uncertain due to contractual matters but remains under consideration.
The proposed starting lineup, pending final confirmation, could see an All Blacks side heavily influenced by Hurricanes players, aligned with Rennie’s stated goal of selecting on recent form and fostering a high-tempo game style. Coach Rennie and assistant Neil Barnes are expected to balance empirical data and tactical intuition in their final choices.
The official team announcement is scheduled for 4 p.m. Friday, setting the stage for Rennie’s first test as All Blacks head coach and offering insight into the team’s strategic direction under new leadership.