All Blacks Prepare for Rugby Championship Clash Against Argentina
As the Rugby Championship gears up for its first matches under the guidance of new All Blacks coach Scott ‘Razor’ Robertson, several intriguing selection possibilities have emerged from the New Zealand camp.
The return of star fullback Will Jordan following his NPC outing with Tasman Mako is particularly noteworthy. Jordan, who has largely featured on the wing for the national team, is expected to slot in at 15 alongside wingers Sevu Reece and Mark Tele’a, with the explosive Caleb Clarke also potentially earning a spot in the starting lineup. This could see veteran Beauden Barrett providing an impactful impact off the bench.
In the midfield, the experienced Rieko Ioane is tipped to retain the 13 jersey, but selectors may opt to pair him with rising talent Billy Proctor, Ioane’s Hurricanes teammate, providing an intriguing combination to test against the Argentinians.
“As the All Blacks look to assert their dominance in the Rugby Championship, these selection dilemmas provide an exciting backdrop to the upcoming clashes against a resurgent Argentina side.”
In the forward pack, the veteran presence of 95-cap flanker Sam Cane will be evaluated against the claims of younger, dynamic options such as Dalton Papali’i, Luke Jacobson, and Ethan Blackadder. Pairing Blackadder and Samipeni Finau alongside captain Ardie Savea could bolster the All Blacks’ line-out against Argentina’s formidable pack.
Additionally, with Scott Barrett’s absence, the second-row pairing remains an area of interest. While Tupou Vaa’i is the logical choice, the selectors may consider handing another opportunity to the talented Sam Darry, who has impressed with his ball-carrying ability and line-out expertise at the domestic level.
Fans can expect a captivating encounter as the Kiwis strive to maintain their status as one of the world’s premier rugby union teams.
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