ALL BLACKS v WALLABIES, BLEDISLOE CUP, GAME TWO, DUNEDIN
FORSYTH BARR STADIUM, DUNEDIN,NZ, Saturday 5thAugust.
As the Bledisloe Cup excitement reaches fever pitch, all eyes are on the clash between the All Blacks and Wallabies at Forsyth Barr Stadium in Dunedin on Saturday, August 5th. With both teams making strategic moves ahead of Game Two, rugby fans are in for an action-packed encounter.
All Blacks’ Lineup Changes
All Blacks coach, Ian Foster, has made a bold statement by introducing 13 changes to the starting lineup. After securing the Bledisloe Cup and Rugby Championship last week with an emphatic 38-7 win over the Wallabies in Melbourne, Foster is now looking to explore new combinations and talents. Among the most noteworthy changes is the inclusion of the in-form try-scoring sensation, Will Jordan, as the starting fullback. This decision has been widely applauded by fans, who have long waited to see Jordan in his preferred position.
In addition to Jordan, two debutants, Shaun Stevenson and Samipeni Finau, are set to make their mark on the field. Stevenson, known for his back-three speed, will be featured on the right wing, while Finau will join the loose forwards alongside stalwarts Sam Cane and Ardie Savea.
Wallabies’ Response
The Wallabies are not taking the challenge lightly either. Despite suffering a defeat in Game One, they are determined to bounce back in Dunedin. Head coach Eddie Jones has shown faith in his young playmaker, Carter Gordon, as the starting number 10 for both test matches against the All Blacks. While Gordon displayed promise during the Super Rugby Pacific season, Jones acknowledges that it takes time for players to settle into the test arena fully.
Jones has also implemented changes in the forward pack, with Tate McDermott being appointed as the test captain in the absence of Allan Alaalatoa. The Wallabies’ starting XV features a mix of seasoned players and exciting talents, each determined to make their mark on the prestigious Bledisloe Cup stage.
Predictions
As the All Blacks and Wallabies take the field in Dunedin, the atmosphere will be charged with anticipation and excitement. The All Blacks’ lineup changes and the inclusion of talented newcomers will provide an edge to their performance. With the home advantage and a formidable squad, the All Blacks are likely to dominate the proceedings.
While the Wallabies are eager to bounce back and display their fighting spirit, overcoming the All Blacks in Dunedin will be a formidable challenge. The clash promises to be a thrilling spectacle, showcasing the finest talents and rugby prowess from both teams.
In the end, the All Blacks’ strength and experience, coupled with their passionate home support, are likely to lead them to victory in this Bledisloe Cup showdown. However, rugby is a game of surprises, and the Wallabies are not ones to back down easily. Expect an exhilarating contest that will keep fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle blows.
All Blacks: Will Jordan, Shaun Stevenson, Braydon Ennor, Anton Lienert-Brown, Leicester Fainga’anuku, Damian McKenzie, Finlay Christie; Ardie Savea, Sam Cane (capt), Samipeni Finau, Sam Whitelock, Brodie Retallick, Nepo Laulala, Samisoni Taukei’aho, Tamaiti Williams. Reserves: Dane Coles, Ofa Tuungafasi, Fletcher Newell, Tupou Vaa’i, Luke Jacobson, Aaron Smith, Richie Mo’unga, Dallas McLeod.
Wallabies: Andrew Kellaway, Mark Nawaqanitawase, Jordan Petaia, Samu Kerevi, Marika Koroibete, Carter Gordon, Tate McDermott (capt), Rob Valetini, Fraser McReight, Tom Hooper, Richie Arnold, Nick Frost, Pone Fa’amausili, David Porecki, Angus Bell. Reserves: Jordan Uelese, James Slipper, Zane Nonggorr, Will Skelton, Rob Leota, Nic White, Quade Cooper, Izaia Perese.
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