All Blacks team to face Springboks - Leroy Carter to make debut in Rugby Championship clash

Carter, who has played over 100 matches for the All Blacks Sevens including appearances at the 2022 Commonwealth Games and 2024 Olympics, becomes the ninth debutant capped by New Zealand in 2025. He joins Will Jordan on the right wing and Damian McKenzie at fullback in a back three brimming with pace and creativity. Ruben Love takes a spot on the bench, looking to add to his two Test caps.

Halfback Noah Hotham has recovered from injury to reclaim his place in the starting XV, with Finlay Christie providing cover. Beauden Barrett partners him at fly-half, while Jordie Barrett and Billy Proctor combine in midfield.

In the forwards, Samisoni Taukei’aho steps into the starting hooker role in the absence of Codie Taylor, who is sidelined with concussion. Brodie McAlister has been named on the bench. Tyrel Lomax swaps with Fletcher Newell to start at tighthead, while the second row sees captain Scott Barrett joined by Tupou Vaa’i. Simon Parker and Wallace Sititi keep their spots in the back row, with Ardie Savea again packing down at openside in his 101st Test.

Head coach Scott Robertson said his side has embraced the build-up to another classic All Blacks–Springboks clash. “It is an awesome opportunity to face South Africa in front of a sell-out home crowd for a second week in a row. Every test match has its own story line and this one will be another passionate battle.

“We are excited to inject Leroy into the backline this week and watch what he creates with his speed and skillset. He has trained hard and put himself into the position where he is ready to perform on Saturday night. It is a special occasion for him and his family.”

The Wellington Test carries extra historical significance. Sky Stadium was the scene of the Springboks’ last victory on New Zealand soil – a dramatic 36-34 triumph in 2018. The sides drew 16-16 in their most recent meeting there in 2019. In total, the All Blacks have faced South Africa 15 times in the capital, winning nine, drawing two and losing four.

The Barrett family will also hit another milestone this weekend. Between them, brothers Beauden, Jordie and captain Scott will bring up a combined 300 Test appearances, with the siblings boasting 78 tries in black – just ahead of the Savea brothers’ tally of 76.

With the Freedom Cup on the line and the Springboks re-shaping their team for a response, Saturday’s showdown promises to be another fierce chapter in rugby’s greatest rivalry.

16. Brodie McAlister (1)

17. Tamaiti Williams (20)

18. Fletcher Newell (28)

19. Fabian Holland (6)

20. Du’Plessis Kirifi (5)

21. Finlay Christie (26)

22. Quinn Tupaea (18)

23. Ruben Love (2)