Whitelock’s record All Blacks team

Faraj Bin Lahousin, Media365, published on Tuesday, October 3, 2023 at 5:19 pm

Sam Whitlock will become the most capped All Black player in history against Uruguay with 150 caps under his belt.

Less than a week after showing their strength against Italy (96-17), New Zealand plays its final Group A match of the Rugby World Cup at Groupama Stadium in Lyon on Thursday against Uruguay (kick-off at 9pm). In this seemingly lopsided clash against the world’s 17th nation, Ian Foster created a mixed XV match, mixing novices and students. But the main information undoubtedly remains the period of time Sam Whitlock. The second row alone will hold the record for selections under the black jersey: 150 heads. He will form the second level in melee alongside Tupou Vaa’i.

Back from injury against Italy but replaced, New Zealand captain Sam Keane reclaims his baselines in the third row. A segment in which Ardie Savea is left to rest in favor of Shannon Frizzell and Luke Jacobson. Impressive from the start of the competition despite his substitute status, Damien McKenzie plays at full-back, while Beauden Barrett drops to the bench to cover the No.15 and fly-half position, attributed to Richie Monga. Like some of the captains, Rico Ioane was missing from the matchday squad. Jordi Barrett and Anton Lienert-Brown are therefore linked to the centre. Future Toulon Leicester player Fainga’anuku is positioned on the left wing.

All Blacks XV vs Uruguay

Mckenzie – Jordan, Lienert-Brown, J. Barrett, Fainga’anuku – Mo’unga, Roigard – Cane, Jacobson, Frizell – Vaa’i, Whitelock – Lomax, Taylor, Tu’ungafasi

Alternatives : Tawkiyahu, Williams, Newell, S. Barrett, Blackadder, Christie, P. Barrett, Clark