Patrick Tuipulotu to captain All Blacks against Japan in Tokyo

Patrick Tuipulotu will captain the All Blacks for the first time when they face Japan on Saturday as head coach Scott Robertson unveils a significantly altered lineup for the Test in Tokyo.

The Blues captain leads a side that features two potential debutants, Peter Lakai and Ruben Love, who will make their first appearances off the bench.

The All Blacks have mixed things up for this match, with Sam Cane retaining his position at openside flanker despite the many changes.

Cam Roigard returns as starting halfback, while Damian McKenzie is restored to the No.10 jersey after being benched during New Zealand's last Test against Australia.

In the forward pack, Samipeni Finau returns to the starting lineup after being left out since the England series in July.

He joins Wallace Sititi in the loose forward trio, with Sititi starting at No.8. The front row will feature Tamaiti Williams, Asafo Aumua, and Pasilio Tosi, forming a formidable unit, with Sam Darry partnering Tuipulotu in the second row.

Both Peter Lakai and Ruben Love are in line to make their All Blacks debuts, coming off the reserves bench.

The backline sees Anton Lienert-Brown and Billy Proctor team up in midfield, while Mark Tele’a returns to the left wing, and Sevu Reece holds his place on the right. Stephen Perofeta makes his return from injury to start at fullback.

Coach Scott Robertson emphasized the strength and mobility of his forward pack, aiming to dominate the set piece while maintaining the All Blacks' characteristic skillful play.

“We have had a fantastic few days in Tokyo so far and the energy in the group as we kick off this tour is exciting to see,” Robertson said.

“We will bring that energy when we face the Brave Blossoms on Saturday, as we know that Japan will play a fast, attacking game.

“We are all thrilled for Ruben and Peter who will get their chance to make their mark on the black jersey for the first time, and for Stephen and Cam who have both worked hard to make their return from injury."

New Zealand XV: 15 Stephen Perofeta, 14 Sevu Reece, 13 Billy Proctor, 12 Anton Lienert-Brown, 11 Mark Tele’a, 10 Damian McKenzie, 9 Cam Roigard, 8 Wallace Sititi, 7 Sam Cane, 6 Samipeni Finau, 5 Patrick Tuipulotu (c), 4 Sam Darry, 3 Pasilio Tosi, 2 Asafo Aumua, 1 Tamaiti Williams

Reserves: 16 George Bell, 17 Ofa Tu’ungafasi, 18 Fletcher Newell, 19 Josh Lord, 20 Peter Lakai, 21 TJ Perenara, 22 David Havili, 23 Ruben Love