All Blacks name four debutants for France series opener in Dunedin

The New Zealand All Blacks have named their squad for the opening test against a depleted France team in Dunedin, featuring four debutants: lock Fabian Holland, loose forward Christian Lio-Willie starting, and prop Ollie Norris and loose forward Du’Plessis Kirifi coming off the bench. Head coach Scott Robertson praised the newcomers' readiness and highlighted the significance of debuting in front of home crowds, with experienced players like Ethan de Groot, Codie Taylor, and Fletcher Newell strengthening the front row. The match marks the first of a three-test series in the 2025 season, with France aiming for their fourth consecutive win against the All Blacks, although they have not won on New Zealand soil since 2009. The All Blacks aim to snap a three-game losing streak to France, who are the reigning Six Nations champions. Additionally, four All Blacks players—Shannon Frizell, Shaun Stevenson, David Havili, and Folau Fakatava—have been named to the combined Australia-New Zealand AUNZ Invitational XV squad set to face the British and Irish Lions in an historic match in Adelaide. The test against France will be broadcast live on Sky Sport and other platforms, with Nic Berry of Australia refereeing the opener.