Pacific stars headline new-look All Blacks side for France Test

Dave Rennie has put his faith in the next generation, naming two potential debutants and handing Ruben Love his first international start at first five-eighth for the All Blacks' opening Test against France in Christchurch on Saturday.

Hurricanes prop Xavier Numia and wing Fehi Fineanganofo are set to earn their first All Blacks caps from the bench while their fellow Super Rugby Pacific playmaker, Love, gets the No.10 jersey after making five appearances off the bench in black.

The match also opens the inaugural Nations Championship and marks the All Blacks' first Test in Christchurch since 2022.

Captain Ardie Savea leads a side that blends experienced campaigners with emerging talent, with Peter Lakai wearing the No.6 jersey for just the ninth time and Luke Jacobson making his first Test start in the No.7 jersey.

Up front, Ethan de Groot, Codie Taylor and Fletcher Newell form an experienced front row, while Josh Lord and Sam Darry continue their partnership at lock. Patrick Tuipulotu adds experience from the bench after Tupou Vaa'i was ruled out with concussion.

In the backs, Cam Roigard partners Love in the halves with Jordie Barrett and Quinn Tupaea in midfield. Caleb Clarke and Will Jordan start on the wings while Damian McKenzie lines up at fullback.

Rennie said the squad reflects the form shown during the Super Rugby season while keeping experienced players at the heart of the team.

"There is no doubt players have forced our hand as selectors through quality Super Rugby performances," he said.

"We have selected an exciting blend of experience and youth, with a powerful bench that will add impact."

All Blacks head coach Dave Rennie says his side has been shaped by strong Super Rugby form as he prepares to launch the 2026 season against France in Christchurch. Photo/Photosport/Marty Melville

Rennie expects a tough contest against a French side known for its physical style.

"We know we will be facing a formidable French side with a strong set piece, kicking game and ability to keep the ball alive, so we will need to be physical, accurate and alert," Rennie said.

"We've worked hard and connected well over the past nine days. That clarity will give us the opportunity to express ourselves."

Saturday's Test will also be the first played at Christchurch's new covered stadium.

"It is an honour to play the first Test match at the new Christchurch stadium and to bring the All Blacks back to this proud rugby region," Rennie said.

"What a way to start our season, playing under the roof in front of a sold-out stadium."

France have named a refreshed side for the Nations Championship opener against the All Blacks, featuring returning stars Damian Penaud and Jefferson Poirot. Photo/Photosport @INPHO

France have also named a side featuring a mix of returning experience and fresh faces for Saturday's Test.

According to French media, winger Damian Penaud returns after missing France's Six Nations campaign while fullback Max Spring will earn just his second Test cap after impressing for Racing 92 this season.

The visitors could also hand a debut to lock Tom Staniforth while veteran prop Jefferson Poirot returns to the French front row for his first international appearance in almost seven years.

France's backs feature plenty of attacking firepower with centres Yoram Moefana and Fabien Brau-Boirie while club teammates Matthieu Jalibert and Maxime Lucu combine in the halves after helping Union Bordeaux Bègles enjoy a strong season.

The All Blacks have won 51 of their 67 Tests against France, who have claimed just four victories on New Zealand soil.

France have not played in Christchurch since a 30-0 defeat in 2013 while the All Blacks are returning to the city for the first time in four years after last facing Argentina there in 2022.

The All Blacks vs France rugby union test match will be played on Saturday 4 July at One New Zealand Stadium, Christchurch. Kickoff is at 7.10pm (NZT). For more information, visit www.allblacks.com

TEAMS

All Blacks: Ethan de Groot, Codie Taylor, Fletcher Newell, Josh Lord, Sam Darry, Peter Lakai, Luke Jacobson, Ardie Savea (capt), Cam Roigard, Ruben Love, Caleb Clarke, Jordie Barrett, Quinn Tupaea, Will Jordan, Damian McKenzie. Reserves: Asafo Aumua, Xavier Numia, Tyrel Lomax, Patrick Tuipulotu, Wallace Sititi, Cortez Ratima, Billy Proctor, Fehi Fineanganofo.

France: Jefferson Poirot, Maxime Lamothe, Demba Bamba, Hugo Auradou, Tom Staniforth, Pierre Bochaton, Oscar Jegou, Marko Gazzotti, Maxime Lucu, Matthieu Jalibert, Théo Attissogbe, Yoram Moefana, Fabien Brau-Boirie, Damian Penaud, Max Spring. Reserves: Barnabé Massa, Reda Wardi, Régis Montagne, Mickaël Guillard, Killian Tixeront, Nolann Le Garrec, Antoine Hastoy, Nicolas Depoortere.