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The All Blacks team has been named to play the final Rugby Championship match against South Africa at Newlands Stadium, Cape Town on the weekend.
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The matchday 23 (with Test caps in brackets) is:
1. Kane Hames (4)
2. Dane Coles (53)
3. Nepo Laulala (8)
4. Samuel Whitelock (91)
5. Scott Barrett (12)
6. Liam Squire (11)
7. Sam Cane (48)
8. Kieran Read (105) – Captain
9. Aaron Smith (66)
10. Beauden Barrett (58)
11. Rieko Ioane (8)
12. Sonny Bill Williams (41)
13. Ryan Crotty (30)
14. Nehe Milner-Skudder (10)
15. Damian McKenzie (7)
16. Codie Taylor (24)
17. Wyatt Crockett (66)
18. Ofa Tu’ungafasi (9)
19. Patrick Tuipulotu (13)
20. Matt Todd (9)
21. Tawera Kerr-Barlow (26)
22. Lima Sopoaga (11)
23. David Havili (1)
As expected, the five All Blacks who came to South Africa early have all been named in the matchday 23. Samuel Whitelock returns to the second row alongside Scott Barrett. Liam Squire is at blindside flanker and Sam Cane is at openside, with Matt Todd moving to the bench.
In the backs, Ryan Crotty has been named at centre, while Nehe Milner-Skudder is on the right wing. Tawera Kerr-Barlow has been named at reserve halfback while Lima Sopoaga provides additional back cover alongside David Havili.
“We’ve settled in well in Cape Town this week. However, our preparation has been different because of the need to recover well from all the travel.” Coach Steve Hansen said.
“The team is really looking forward to playing at Newlands after a nine-year absence. We know we have a huge fanbase here and the hospitality and reception we have received from the local folks has been fantastic. We look forward to their support, as well as the support of all our New Zealand and global fans, come Saturday.”
