Open Extended Reactions

The All Blacks have made several changes to their starting lineup for Saturday’s Rugby Championship clash with Argentina in Wellington. Anton Lienert-Brown has been preferred at outside centre ahead of Rieko Ioane, while Will Jordan will return from injury to provide back three cover.

Lienert-Brown has been in impressive form for the Crusaders this season, and he will be looking to make the most of his opportunity in the All Blacks’ midfield. Ioane, on the other hand, has been quiet in recent matches, and he will need to lift his performance if he wants to regain his starting spot.

Jordan’s return is a major boost for the All Blacks. The Crusaders fullback is one of the most exciting young players in New Zealand, and he will be looking to make an immediate impact off the bench against Argentina.

Ethan Blackadder has won the No. 6 jersey, while Sam Darry will play just his second Test after he was selected at lock in place of injured skipper Scott Barrett.

Ardie Savea will captain the side in Barrett’s absence, while TJ Perenara also makes his return from injury at scrum-half.

“It’s a special night for Ardie leading the team in his hometown and it’s great to have TJ and Will back in the mix,” Robertson said.

“Once again there were some close selection calls but we’ve picked a squad to win the key contests and perform on Saturday.

“We know Argentina will bring a lot of physicality and passion to the Test and we’re ready for that challenge.”

The All Blacks registered a clean sweep of their July Tests, defeating England in two keenly-fought Test matches before they then cruised past Fiji in San Diego.

NEW ZEALAND:

Beauden Barrett, Sevu Reece, Anton Lienert-Brown, Jordie Barrett, Mark Tele’a, Damian McKenzie, TJ Perenara; Ardie Savea (capt), Dalton Papali’i, Ethan Blackadder, Sam Darry, Tupou Vaa’i, Tyrel Lomax, Codie Taylor, Ethan De Groot.

Replacements:

Asafo Aumua, Ofa Tu’ungafasi, Fletcher Newell, Josh Lord, Wallace Sititi, Cortez Ratima, Rieko Ioane, Will Jordan.