Overview
- Ardie Savea will lead the side in Wellington after Scott Barrett suffered a calf tear that rules him out for the rest of the series.
- Patrick Tuipulotu is drafted into the second row to fill the vacancy left by Barrett’s injury.
- Caleb Clarke steps in on the left wing for concussed Sevu Reece while Rieko Ioane shifts to the right flank.
- Timoci Tavatavanawai earns a first All Blacks cap from the bench following a standout Super Rugby Pacific campaign.
- Coach Scott Robertson retains the bulk of his forward pack to preserve cohesion despite calls for an improved performance.