All Blacks Announce Team to Face South Africa in Wellington
The All Blacks have named their team to compete against South Africa at Wellington's Sky Stadium this Saturday night, September 13, 2025. This highly anticipated Rugby Championship match promises to be a thrilling encounter between two of rugby's greatest rivals.
The All Blacks Squad
Here is the All Blacks match-day 23:
- 1. Ethan de Groot (35)
- 2. Samisoni Taukei’aho (36)
- 3. Tyrel Lomax (46)
- 4. Scott Barrett (84) (Captain)
- 5. Tupou Vaa’i (43)
- 6. Simon Parker (2)
- 7. Ardie Savea (100) (Vice-Captain)
- 8. Wallace Sititi (12)
- 9. Noah Hotham (2)
- 10. Beauden Barrett (139)
- 11. Leroy Carter *
- 12. Jordie Barrett (74) (Vice-Captain)
- 13. Billy Proctor (7)
- 14. Will Jordan (47)
- 15. Damian McKenzie (67)
- 16. Brodie McAlister (1)
- 17. Tamaiti Williams (20)
- 18. Fletcher Newell (28)
- 19. Fabian Holland (6)
- 20. Du’Plessis Kirifi (5)
- 21. Finlay Christie (26)
- 22. Quinn Tupaea (18)
- 23. Ruben Love (2)
Leroy Carter will make his debut on the left wing, becoming the ninth debutant for the All Blacks in 2025. Noah Hotham returns from injury to start at halfback. Samisoni Taukei'aho starts at hooker with Brodie McAlister on the bench.
Unavailable Players
Several players are unavailable for selection due to injuries: Emoni Narawa (rib fracture), Codie Taylor (concussion), Patrick Tuipulotu (minor facial fracture), Cortez Ratima (rib fracture), Timoci Tavatavanawai (fractured radius), and Cam Roigard (foot stress fracture).
Coach's Perspective
All Blacks Head Coach Scott Robertson said, “It is an awesome opportunity to face South Africa in front of a sell-out home crowd for a second week in a row. Every test match has its own story line and this one will be another passionate battle. We are excited to inject Leroy into the backline this week and watch what he creates with his speed and skillset."
Match Preview: All Blacks vs. Springboks
The All Blacks edged the Springboks 24-17 in Round 3, ending a four-match losing run against their biggest rivals. Scott Robertson's side now aims to beat South Africa twice in a single tournament for the first time since 2017. The kickoff is scheduled for 7:05 PM (NZST).
Key Stats and Facts
Will Jordan continues to be a key attacking weapon for the All Blacks. New Zealand has also leaned heavily on their maul, scoring three tries from that set piece. South Africa, meanwhile, has lost two of its past three Tests and faces the prospect of back-to-back defeats for the first time since 2022.
Live Updates and Key Moments
The game is currently underway in Wellington. Here are some key moments:
- Siya Kolisi made a play and Cheslin Kolbe scored for South Africa in the 43rd minute (All Blacks 10, South Africa 14).
- At Halftime: New Zealand led South Africa 10-7 with a try by Damian McKenzie.
- Cheslin Kolbe had previously tied the game for the Springboks in the 25th minute.
- Jordie Barrett made a big tackle to deny Cheslin Kolbe a try.
- Leroy Carter scored a try for the All Blacks in the 18th minute.
Halftime Stats
| Statistic | New Zealand | South Africa |
|---|---|---|
| Possession | 53% | 47% |
| Territory | 25% | 75% |
| Passes | 104 | 90 |
| Carries | 52 | 51 |
| Tackles Made | 50 | 49 |
Broadcast Information
In the United States, fans can watch the All Blacks–Springboks match live on FloRugby and the FloSports app, with kickoff at 3:05 a.m. ET. Highlights are also available on NZR+ and the All Blacks YouTube channel.
Historical Context
The All Blacks have secured six victories from their last seven Rugby Championship Tests on home soil. However, South Africa have won just once in their last 12 Tests played in New Zealand. The match marks the second instalment of their 2025 series.
