Scott Barrett returns to lead New Zealand in Perth

Scott Barrett returns from injury to captain the All Blacks in their second Bledisloe Cup clash against Australia in Perth.

The lock starts alongside Tupou Vaa’i in the second row, with Patrick Tuipulotu named on the bench.

Peter Lakai is handed his first Test start at number eight after four substitute appearances, while Wallace Sititi moves into an impact role. Injuries have forced changes in the front row, with Tamaiti Williams and Fletcher Newell starting in place of Tyrel Lomax and Ethan de Groot.

Damian McKenzie takes the flyhalf role with Beauden Barrett unavailable. Leicester Fainga’anuku returns for his first Test since the 2023 World Cup and starts on the wing. Quinn Tupaea earns his first start at outside centre, while Will Jordan celebrates his 50th cap.

Beauden Barrett, Ethan de Groot, Tyrel Lomax and Caleb Clarke are all sidelined, prompting six changes on the bench. Robertson’s selection reflects both necessity and faith in the depth of the squad.

Head coach Scott Robertson praised Australia’s resilience in Auckland but believes his side is ready for the challenge.

“It’s all up for grabs in what has been the most even Rugby Championship we’ve ever seen, and we’re here to cap it off with a performance we can be proud of,” he said.

New Zealand XV: 15 Will Jordan, 14 Leroy Carter, 13 Quinn Tupaea, 12 Jordie Barrett, 11 Leicester Fainga’anuku, 10 Damian McKenzie, 9 Cam Roigard, 8 Peter Lakai, 7 Ardie Savea, 6 Simon Parker, 5 Tupou Vaa’i, 4 Scott Barrett (c), 3 Fletcher Newell, 2 Codie Taylor, 1 Tamaiti Williams

Reserves: 16 Samisoni Taukei’aho, 17 George Bower, 18 Pasilio Tosi, 19 Patrick Tuipulotu, 20 Wallace Sititi, 21 Cortez Ratima, 22 Rieko Ioane, 23 Ruben Love