Uncapped Scrumhalf Preston Set for All Blacks Debut Against South Africa

Kyle Preston, an uncapped 25-year-old scrumhalf, is set to make his New Zealand debut off the bench against South Africa in a crucial Rugby Championship Test at Eden Park. Preston's selection follows a breakout season highlighted by a hat-trick on his Super Rugby debut for the Canterbury Crusaders and comes with Finlay Christie starting at No 9 due to Cortez Ratima's rib fracture. Head coach Scott Robertson praised Preston as a smart and composed halfback who drives the game, a quality needed against the world champions. The All Blacks are under pressure after a recent loss to the Pumas but remain top of the Rugby Championship table ahead of the fourth-placed Springboks. The match will also see Ardie Savea become the team’s 15th Test centurion, exemplifying leadership and passion. Additional lineup changes include Wallace Sititi starting at No 8, Simon Parker shifting to blindside flanker, and Tyrel Lomax returning to the bench after injury.