ALL BLACKS V WALLABIES, BLEDISLOE CUP, INTERNATIONAL RUGBY, JULY 29th,2023
MCG,MELBOURNE
In a highly anticipated international rugby spectacle, the stage is set for an electrifying encounter as the mighty All Blacks prepare to defend their Bledisloe Cup crown against the formidable Wallabies. The thrilling showdown is scheduled to take place at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on July 29th, 2023.
Leading the charge for the All Blacks will be the indomitable Ardie Savea, who will don the captain’s armband in the absence of the injured Sam Cane. Savea’s exemplary performances on the field have earned him this well-deserved honor, and his 73rd test appearance will be a momentous occasion.
The Wallabies, under the guidance of experienced coach Eddie Jones, are gearing up for a hard-fought battle. The team has undergone significant changes, with rookies Carter Gordon and Tom Hooper taking on key starting roles, adding to the excitement of the match.
Both teams are no strangers to fierce competition, and the history between them is rife with unforgettable encounters. Last year’s controversial match at Marvel Stadium in Melbourne saw the All Blacks narrowly edging out the Wallabies in a nail-biting finish, thanks to a last-minute try by Jordie Barrett. This year, the Wallabies are determined to turn the tables and reclaim the Bledisloe Cup.
The stakes are high in the Rugby Championship, which has been reduced to one round due to the impending World Cup. The All Blacks currently sit atop the championship log with 9 points, followed by South Africa (5), Argentina (4), and Australia (1). A victory or even a draw will be enough for the All Blacks to retain their championship title.
As the rugby world eagerly awaits the grand showdown, the MCG is bracing for a record-breaking crowd of over 80,000 fans. The atmosphere promises to be electric, with supporters from both nations rallying behind their teams.
The clash will also witness a historic moment as Sam Whitelock sets a new milestone, surpassing Richie McCaw’s record for the most Bledisloe Cup appearances ever. Whitelock’s 35th game will also equal McCaw’s Rugby Championship record of 58 games, solidifying his legendary status in the sport.
This thrilling encounter is not just about the Bledisloe Cup; it’s a celebration of rugby, a battle for supremacy, and a chance for fans to witness extraordinary talent and sportsmanship on display. The MCG will transform from a cricketing mecca into a rugby fortress, where the All Blacks and the Wallabies will leave it all on the field.
So, mark your calendars for the monumental clash on July 29th, 2023, as the All Blacks and Wallabies reignite their historic rivalry on the hallowed grounds of the MCG. Prepare for an adrenaline-pumping showdown that will keep you at the edge of your seat till the final whistle!
Wallabies: 1.Angus Bell (21 Tests) 2. David Porecki (12 Tests)3. Allan Alaalatoa (captain) (66 tests) 4.Nick Frost (10 Tests)5. Will Skelton (26 Tests)6. Jed Holloway (11 Tests)7. Tom Hooper (1 Test)8. Rob Valetini (32 Tests)9. Tate McDermott (23 Tests)10. Carter Gordon (2 Tests)11. Marika Koroibete (53 Tests)12. Samu Kerevi (43 Tests)13. Jordan Petaia (25 Tests) 14. Mark Nawaqanitawase (4 Tests)15. Andrew Kellaway (21 Tests)
RESERVES. 16. Jordan Uelese (17 Tests)17. James Slipper (129 Tests)18. Taniela Tupou (47 Tests)19. Richie Arnold (2 Tests)20. Rob Leota (14 Tests)21. Nic White (61 Tests)22. Quade Cooper (78 Tests)23. Izaia Perese (3 Tests)
All Blacks: Beauden Barrett, Will Jordan, Rieko Ioane, Jordie Barrett, Mark Telea, Richie Mo’unga, Aaron Smith, Ardie Savea (captain), Dalton Papali’i, Shannon Frizell, Scott Barrett, Brodie Retallick, Tyrel Lomax, Codie Taylor, Ethan de Groot.
RESERVES. Samisoni Taukei’aho, Ofa Tu’ungafasi, Nepo Laulala, Sam Whitelock, Luke Jacobson, Cam Roigard, Anton Lienert-Brown, Caleb Clarke.
REFEREE. WAYNE BARNES of England
PREDICTION
Well for me you would have to have rocks in your head to bet against this All Blacks side. Blacks by 10 points.
NOTE.. Sam Whitelock is set to break Richie McCaws record for the most Bledisloe Cup appearances ever, named for his 35th game. He will also equal McCaws Rugby Championship record of 58 games.
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