All Blacks Captain Scott Barrett Returns for Rugby Championship Opener in Córdoba

The All Blacks have named a strong squad to face Argentina in the opening Test of the 2025 Lipovitan-D Rugby Championship, with captain Scott Barrett returning from injury to lead the team. Scott Barrett will start alongside Fabian Holland in the second row, while Beauden Barrett is fit to contest the No.10 jersey, competing with Damian McKenzie. Tupou Vaa’i returns to the No.6 jersey, and Du’Plessis Kirifi and Ardie Savea complete the loose forward trio, with Savea playing his 98th Test. Injuries have ruled out Wallace Sititi and Tamaiti Williams for the first Test, opening the door for Chiefs back-rower Simon Parker to potentially make his Test debut. The squad traveled well, with late arrivals from NPC making a positive impression in training and preparation. Head Coach Scott Robertson expressed confidence in the team's readiness, emphasizing focus and motivation for the campaign opener in Córdoba.