Oct 22, V7N- All Blacks scrumhalf Cam Roigard will make his first appearance of the year in the upcoming test against Japan in Yokohama, marking his return after recovering from a serious knee injury. Additionally, Peter Lakai and Ruben Love are set to make their international debuts, having been named in the matchday squad.

Roigard, who impressed during the pool stage of the World Cup last year, will partner with flyhalf Damian McKenzie to manage the backline. Patrick Tuipulotu will lead the team as captain for the first time, stepping in for Scott Barrett. Loosehead prop Pasilio Tosi will make his first start in his fourth test.

Ruben Love and Peter Lakai, both from the Wellington Hurricanes, have been selected after standout performances in Super Rugby. Love missed an earlier debut opportunity due to injury, while Lakai was a late addition to the squad following injuries to loose forwards Ethan Blackadder, Luke Jacobson, and Dalton Papali’i.

Coach Scott Robertson expressed excitement about the team's energy and praised the debutants and returning players, emphasizing the All Blacks' readiness to face Japan's fast-paced, attacking game.

This match kicks off the All Blacks' tour, which includes fixtures against England, Ireland, France, and Italy.

All Blacks Team to Face Japan:

  • 15: Stephen Perofeta
  • 14: Sevu Reece
  • 13: Billy Proctor
  • 12: Anton Lienert-Brown
  • 11: Mark Tele'a
  • 10: Damian McKenzie
  • 9: Cam Roigard
  • 8: Wallace Sititi
  • 7: Sam Cane
  • 6: Samipeni Finau
  • 5: Patrick Tuipulotu (captain)
  • 4: Sam Darry
  • 3: Pasilio Tosi
  • 2: Asafo Aumua
  • 1: Tamaiti Williams

Replacements:

  • 16: George Bell
  • 17: Ofa Tu’ungafasi
  • 18: Fletcher Newell
  • 19: Josh Lord
  • 20: Peter Lakai
  • 21: TJ Perenara
  • 22: David Havili
  • 23: Ruben Love

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