Due to injury, New Zealand captain Sam Kane pulled out of the match against the Blues

A huge last minute blow for the All Blacks. Their captain, Sam Kane (31 years old, 90 international matches), was forced to withdraw from the opening match of the World Cup against France. He was injured during captain's training. To make up for this package, Foster had to adapt. He drafted Dalton Papali'i, who was initially projected as the No. 6 starter, for the No. 7 position. He holds it with the Oakland Blues. Tupou Vaa'i will come in sixth. Brodie Retallick, who has been injured in his left knee since the beginning of August, will finally make the bench. Ardie Savea regains the captaincy.

The fate of the Chiefs player who suffered a serious spinal injury during the 2018 and 2019 seasons. “One more injury and I'll stop.”He said at the time. He has managed to return to the highest level. Coach Ian Foster was very attached to this player, and made him his captain in his first match in charge of the All Blacks.

Sometimes against the odds, because Keane, who does not have the same aura as his illustrious predecessor Richie McCaw, has always had difficulty generating enthusiasm. Players relate to his character as a man who doesn't give it back but sends himself to the barns.