All Blacks fans stunned as star left out of team to face Springboks
Rugby NewsThursday, 27 August 2026 at 11:34
The All Blacks have confirmed their team for the second Test of the Rugby's Greatest Rivalry tour.
After opening the four-Test series with an impressive 33-16 victory at Ellis Park, as well as completing a clean sweep of South Africa's club sides, Dave Rennie's men will now aim to secure a second successive win over the Springboks.
There are several changes to the match-day 23 that claimed victory in Johannesburg last weekend.
George Bower, who made a strong impact from the bench in the opening Test, replaces Ethan de Groot, who remains in HIA protocols. Josh Lord also comes into the side, while Tupou Vaa’i shifts into the second row and Simon Parker takes over in the number six jersey.
Xavier Numia is added to the 23 as prop cover, with Patrick Tuipulotu providing cover in the second row.
The backline sees just one positional alteration from last week, with Leroy Carter and Josh Moorby switching roles. Carter starts on the wing in the number 11 jersey, while Moorby takes his place among the replacements as outside back cover.
“While we were happy with the win last week, I think both teams will be better this weekend,” Rennie said.
“We’ve played four Tests this year and are still growing as a group. I’m really excited about the competition for places and the performances of the squad across the matches here in South Africa, and we’re really looking forward to this weekend.”
Fans left surprised over Rieko Ioane omission
One notable omission from the squad is Rieko Ioane. The centre was a constant threat in the midweek clash with the Lions, making several powerful carries before crossing for two tries, including an interception score.
Ioane carried for 135 metres, the second-highest total in the match behind centre partner Timoci Tavatavanawai. Given his recent form and ability to cover multiple positions, his absence has come as a surprise to many fans.
One supporter asked, "What more does Rieko need to do," while another reacted to the team announcement by writing, "Wtf. No Rieko?"
While others such as Beauden Barrett and Richie Mo'unga have also been snubbed, Ioane is the one player who fans feel deserved a shot.
All Blacks team to face Springboks
15 Damian McKenzie
14 Will Jordan
13 Quinn Tupaea
12 Jordie Barrett
11 Leroy Carter
10 Ruben Love
9 Cam Roigard
1 George Bower
2 Codie Taylor
3 Tyrel Lomax
4 Fabian Holland
5 Tupou Vaa’i
6 Simon Parker
7 Luke Jacobson
8 Ardie Savea, Captain
Reserves
16 Asafo Aumua
17 Xavier Numia
18 Fletcher Newell
19 Patrick Tuipulotu
20 Peter Lakai
21 Kyle Preston
22 Anton Lienert-Brown
23 Josh Moorby
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