Barrett's Return Boosts All Blacks for Twickenham Clash
In a significant boost for New Zealand, captain Scott Barrett has been declared fit to start for the All Blacks in their highly anticipated showdown with England at Twickenham this Saturday. The influential lock missed last week's narrow victory over Scotland due to a leg laceration sustained against Ireland, but has successfully recovered to reclaim his place in Scott Robertson's starting lineup.
Robertson Reshuffles Backline Amid Injury
With Barrett's return solidifying the pack, coach Scott Robertson has been forced into a backline reshuffle following an injury to winger Caleb Clarke, who is ruled out with concussion. Leicester Fainga'anuku moves to the wing to cover for Clarke, while Billy Proctor comes into the side to partner Quinn Tupaea in the centres. The experienced Will Jordan continues at full-back.
The return of Simon Parker on the blindside flank pushes the impressive Wallace Sititi to a replacements bench that also features the potent Damian McKenzie, who continues in his role as an impact player.
Historic Streak and Epic Clash Anticipated
The All Blacks carry a formidable record into this fixture, having won all three meetings between the sides last year. Furthermore, England have not defeated New Zealand at their Twickenham fortress since 2012. However, they face a home team riding a wave of confidence with nine consecutive victories to their name.
All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson acknowledged the challenge ahead, stating: "Twickenham is one of the iconic venues in world rugby and there is nothing quite like hearing 80,000 fans singing 'Swing Low' to get the adrenaline pumping. Recent games against England have been incredibly close-fought, and both teams are coming off a run of wins, so we are expecting an epic clash on Saturday afternoon. We will embrace the atmosphere and the occasion."
The match kicks off at 3.10pm GMT on Saturday 15 November at a sold-out Twickenham Stadium.
New Zealand XV: 1 Ethan de Groot, 2 Codie Taylor, 3 Fletcher Newell; 4 Scott Barrett (capt.), 5 Fabian Holland; 6 Simon Parker, 7 Ardie Savea, 8 Peter Lakai; 9 Cam Roigard, 10 Beauden Barrett; 11 Leicester Fainga'anuku, 12 Quinn Tupaea, 13 Billy Proctor, 14 Leroy Carter; 15 Will Jordan.
Replacements: 16 Samisoni Taukei'aho, 17 Tamaiti Williams, 18 Pasilio Tosi, 19 Josh Lord, 20 Wallace Sititi; 21 Cortez Ratima, 22 Anton Lienert-Brown, 23 Damian McKenzie.
