New Zealand prop Angus Ta’avao has been suspended for three games following his red card incident in the recently concluded Test against Ireland in Dunedin.
TJ Perenara has been given another opportunity to impress the New Zealand selectors after being named in the Maori All Blacks line up for the Tuesday's game against Ireland at Sky Stadium.
New Zealand head coach Ian Foster expressed confidence on his side's chances to seal the series against Ireland when the two teams meet in Dunedin on Saturday.
Saturday's second Test in Dunedin gives Ireland another chance to pit their wits against New Zealand, but the hosts will be champing at the bit to wrap up the series.
New Zealand head coach Ian Foster has made a forced change to the starting line up for the second Test against Ireland to be played in Dunedin on Saturday.
New Zealand have suffered a double blow ahead of the second Test against Ireland in Dunedin with both Sam Whitelock and Tupou Vaa'i ruled out of the weekend's encounter.
Ireland head coach Andy Farrell is hopeful that skipper Johnny Sexton will be available for the second Test against New Zealand to be played in Dunedin on Saturday.
Ardie Savea scored a double as New Zealand overcame Covid setback to defeat Ireland 42-19 in the opening Test against Ireland at Eden Park in Auckland on Saturday.
All Blacks back row Scott Barrett admits that his side is wary of the physical challenge from Ireland as the two teams meet each other in Auckland on Saturday for the first Test.
Leicester Fainga'anuku is set to make his debut as New Zealand have confirmed the matchday squad for the first Test against Ireland scheduled on Saturday in Auckland.