New Zealand have received a significant boost ahead of their crucial Autumn Nations Series Test against England at Twickenham this weekend, with Scott Barrett declared fit to return and captain the side.
Remarkable Recovery for Returning Captain
Barrett, who missed the All Blacks' 25-17 victory over Scotland at Murrayfield last week, has made a remarkable recovery from a leg injury. The lock required 12 stitches for a cut beneath his knee sustained during the match against Ireland a fortnight ago.
All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson confirmed Barrett's availability, stating he had participated fully in training. "We've gone for our best team for this game, for this Test," Robertson said. "It's remarkable that he healed so well, once you saw the cut. The Barretts must have some good skin."
While Scott Barrett returns to lead the side, his older brother Beauden retains the fly-half position. However, younger brother Jordie remains in New Zealand receiving treatment for an ankle injury suffered in the same Ireland match.
Robertson Makes Strategic Selection Changes
With winger Caleb Clarke also sidelined through injury, Robertson has implemented several changes to his backline. Leicester Fainga'anuku moves into the back three, while Billy Proctor comes in to play at outside centre.
Robertson expressed full confidence in Fainga'anuku's capabilities on the wing. "Did you see him play the second Bledisloe Cup match? Yeah, he was pretty handy on the left wing, he's got power, he's a left-footed kicker, and he's playing good footy, so it's his spot."
In the forwards, Simon Parker earns a start in the back row, with Wallace Sititi providing impact from the bench. Robertson's selection appears designed to counter England's bench strength under Steve Borthwick, with Anton Lienert-Brown and Damian McKenzie also among the replacements.
Preparing for England's Aerial Assault
The All Blacks have conducted extensive analysis following their performance against Scotland, particularly focusing on the third quarter where Scotland fought back from 17-0 down to gain momentum.
"We looked at the momentum swings, and how they put pressure on us," Robertson explained. "The ability to get out of our own end cleanly was key for us, it just took longer than we'd planned for so we've done a bit of work on it this week and how to get the momentum back."
Robertson identified England's kicking game as a particular threat, highlighting scrum-half Alex Mitchell's quality. "England have got a great aerial game, Alex Mitchell's a quality kicker. He puts it on the spot. It's a big part of the game for them."
However, the coach also acknowledged England's attacking potential, noting that when George Ford distributes quickly, "the game's on".
Despite anticipating a kicking battle, Robertson expects an entertaining contest at the famous London venue. "We're ready for a great game of footy. Twickenham always turns on the atmosphere, it's a great occasion. When Swing Low starts cranking up you know you're in a special place, where rugby's loved. I think everyone should look forward to a game that's going to be played the way it should be, ball in hand."
