Overview

• New Zealand secured their 500th Test victory by holding off an under-strength France side in Dunedin.
• Will Jordan scored two tries, including his 40th international, in a match that tested the All Blacks’ resilience after Sevu Reece left with a head injury.
• France’s reshuffled squad featured eight debutants, with key stars such as Antoine Dupont rested, forcing New Zealand into an early backline reshuffle that saw Damian McKenzie move to fullback.
• Scotland opened their Pacific tour with a 29-26 win over the Māori All Blacks in Whangārei to take an early series lead.
• Wales extended their professional-era record losing streak to 18 matches after a 24-19 loss to Japan in Kitakyushu, deepening concerns over their form.