All Blacks Make 10 Changes Include Debutants Against France

All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson has made 10 starting changes for the third and final Test against France, continuing his commitment to give game time to every fit player in the squad during the series. With New Zealand already having secured the series, Robertson is focused on building depth ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup, trusting younger and less experienced players such as hooker Brodie McAlister, who will make his Test debut from the bench, and Ruben Love, who will start at fullback for the first time. Damian McKenzie starts at fly-half, replacing the injured Beauden Barrett, and will partner Cortez Ratima in the halves. The lineup features a strong presence from the Waikato Chiefs, with seven players starting, including Anton Lienert-Brown and Quinn Tupaea in midfield, as well as Sevu Reece returning to the wing following injury. Captain Ardie Savea leads the team, with a mostly new backrow and front row, including the return of Tyrel Lomax at prop and Samisoni Taukei'aho at hooker. Robertson emphasizes the importance of trusting and preparing the young players while respecting the challenge posed by the French side despite their own squad rotations.