Scott Robertson names his First Squad for the upcoming tests against England

Scott Barrett has been announced as the New All Black Captain by new Coach Scott Robertson.

A new era awaits the New Zealand Rugby team as new head coach Scott Robertson picked his squad of 32 to host England in this year’s test series.

Coach Robertson has had his eye on emerging talent and his selection proves that the youth can make for a bright All Black future. Eight of the 32 players are currently based overseas and Roberton has steadily tracked their progression and performances.

With that being said there are five uncapped All Blacks in line to make their debut during England’s tour of New Zealand. Wallace Sititi, Billy Proctor, George Bell, Cortez Ratima and Pasilio Tosi will all be looking to showcase their abilities on the big stage. 

With the likes of world class players such as Sam Cane and Will Jordan expecting to miss the series through injury, the All Blacks are sure to rely on the youthfulness of their squad. 

There have been a few eyebrows raised after the announcement of Scott Barrett as the New All Blacks captain. This comes after many reports speculated that Ardie Savea, 2023 World Player of the Year will be leading the new look All Blacks. However, Coach Robertson has provided reasons for his decision and has reiterated that he feels he made the right choice. 

The former Crusaders head coach said that he believes that Barrett is technically sound and has astute tactics. He has also praised Barrett’s leadership capabilities and said that the lock is respected by both coaches and players alike.

The All Blacks will want to notch up a few solid performances during the highly anticipated series against England as they try to create a new philosophy under coach Robertson.

The current All Blacks squad reads as follow:

Hookers:

Cody Taylor

George Bell

Asafo Aumua 

Props:

Ethan De Groot

Tyrel Lomax

Tamaiti Williams

Ofa Tu’ungafasi

Fletcher Newell

Pasilio Tosi

Locks:

Scott Barrett

Patrick Tuipulotu

Tu Vaa’i

Loose Forwards:

Ardie Savea

Ethan Blackadder

Luke Jacobson

Wallace Sititi

Samipeni Finau

Dalton Papali’i

Scrum-halfs:

TJ Perenara

Finley Christie

Cortez Ratima

Fly- halfs; 

Damian Mckenzie

Beauden Barrett

Centres:

Jordie Barrett

Rieko Ioane

Billy Proctor

Anton Lienert- Brown

Outside backs:

Sevu Reece

Caleb Clarke

Mark Tele’a

Emoni Narawa

Stephen Perofeta