Overview
- Coach Dave Rennie announced the 36-player squad on Monday, Oct. 26, with Codie Taylor named captain for Tests against Scotland, Wales and England in November.
- Captain Ardie Savea is unavailable with a shoulder injury, a loss that prompted recalls and role changes to cover back-row duties.
- Eight formerly injured internationals returned to the squad, including Jordie Barrett, Richie Mo’unga, Anton Lienert-Brown and Quinn Tupaea, bringing experience and match fitness.
- Two uncapped players, prop Saula Ma'u and flyhalf Josh Jacomb, joined the group and Leicester Fainga'anuku was shifted from the backs into the loose forward ranks to increase versatility.
- The tight schedule of three consecutive away weekend Tests increases the premium on squad rotation and recovery, making depth, versatility and leadership the selection’s central priorities.