Jordie Barrett returns to New Zealand line-up for clash against France
Beauden Barrett (in picture) will be joined by his brothers Jordie and Scott in the New Zealand line-up
©PA
New Zealand head coach Steve Hansen has recalled fullback Jordie Barrett in the line-up for the first Test against France to be played in Auckland on Saturday.
As a result, the Barretts became the first trio brothers to feature in the same line-up for All Blacks with Beauden and Scott also part of the XV.
Beauden will be joined at half-back by Aaron Smith while Rieko Ioane and Ben Smith are positioned on the left and right wings. Owen Franks and Joe Moody return to the line-up to bolster the front-row while Codie Taylor is named at number two.
"We are really looking forward to the weekend and had a great week of training. Whilst rugby is a complicated game, we’ve worked hard at simplifying those complexities this week so that we can go out and play with real confidence, high energy and genuine intent on the weekend,” said Hansen.
“The players have worked hard on getting clarity of role and are up for the challenge that this French side brings. Statistics show that they’re the best defensive team in world rugby at the moment, and history has shown us what can happen when they flick the switch on attack.
“It’s also a special night for the Barrett family with Beaudy, Scott and Jordie all starting the Test match, the first trio of All Black brothers to do so, so we congratulate them on their historic milestone.”
Sam Whitelock will lead the side for the second time in his career as New Zealand look to begin the three-game series against France with a victory.
