Patrick Tuipulotu Named All Blacks Captain

Patrick Tuipulotu has been named captain of the All Blacks for the first time as they prepare to face Japan in Yokohama, with Damian McKenzie returning at flyhalf. This match marks Tuipulotu's 47th appearance for New Zealand, as regular captain Scott Barrett is absent from the squad. The All Blacks will also see scrumhalf Cam Roigard return to the starting lineup, while Pasilio Tosi makes his first start at prop. Two debutants, Peter Lakai and Ruben Love, are included in the reserves. The match is part of a series of tests leading to games against England, Ireland, France, and Italy. Coach Scott Robertson expressed excitement about the team's energy as they begin this tour.