Scott Robertson names squad for All Blacks' Grand Slam bid
The All Blacks have confirmed their squad for next month’s Northern Hemisphere tour, with head coach Scott Robertson naming one uncapped player as New Zealand target their first Grand Slam in 15 years.
Prop Tevita Mafileo is the only uncapped inclusion, while hooker George Bell also earns a recall after not featuring in the Rugby Championship.
The squad otherwise leans on established combinations as Robertson manages a heavy injury list. Among those unavailable are Tyrel Lomax, Tupou Vaa’i, Noah Hotham, Emoni Narawa, Ollie Norris, Timoci Tavatavanawai, Ofa Tu’ungafasi, Asafo Aumua, and Stephen Perofeta.
The All Blacks will face Ireland in Chicago before continuing their tour against Scotland, England, and Wales.
Robertson said the group was motivated by the chance to add to New Zealand’s proud history of Grand Slam-winning sides.
“There is a lot of history that has led up to this opportunity for our group, so we will be honouring and taking inspiration from the feats that have come before us,” said Robertson.
“The rematch against Ireland at Soldier Field will be a huge occasion, and then facing some of the northern hemisphere’s best at their home grounds is a fantastic challenge for us.”
New Zealand have completed a Grand Slam on four occasions – in 1978, 2005, 2008, and 2010 – but have not managed the achievement since.
New Zealand squad:
Forwards: Codie Taylor, Samisoni Taukei’aho, George Bell, Ethan de Groot, Tamaiti Williams, George Bower, Fletcher Newell, Pasilio Tosi, Tevita Mafileo, Scott Barrett (capt), Patrick Tuipulotu, Fabian Holland, Josh Lord, Samipeni Finau, Simon Parker, Ardie Savea, Du’Plessis Kirifi, Wallace Sititi, Peter Lakai, Luke Jacobson.
Backs: Cortez Ratima, Cameron Roigard, Finlay Christie, Beauden Barrett, Damian McKenzie, Anton Lienert-Brown, Jordie Barrett, Quinn Tupaea, Billy Proctor, Leicester Fainga’anuku, Rieko Ioane, Caleb Clarke, Sevu Reece, Leroy Carter, Will Jordan, Ruben Love.
