Luke Jacobson Named Captain for All Blacks Clash Against Sharks in Durban
Head coach Dave Rennie has appointed loose forward Luke Jacobson to captain the All Blacks for the first time. The team will face the Hollywoodbets Sharks in Durban following a 38-21 win over the Stormers.
Key takeaways
- Luke Jacobson will lead the All Blacks for the first time as captain against the Sharks.
- Bradley Slater and Semisi Ta'eiloa are set to earn their first All Blacks appearances from the bench.
- The squad features a mix of veteran players and those promoted from the bench after the win against the Stormers.
What Happened
All Blacks Head Coach Dave Rennie announced the match-day 23 for the second fixture of the South African tour against the Hollywoodbets Sharks at Kings Park Stadium. The selection features loose forward Luke Jacobson as captain for the first time in his career. The squad includes two players, Bradley Slater and Semisi Ta'eiloa, who are scheduled to make their All Blacks debuts from the reserve bench.
The lineup for the Tuesday fixture integrates seven players who participated in the previous 38-21 victory over the Stormers in Cape Town. Asafo Aumua, Sam Darry, Kyle Preston, and Caleb Clarke move from the bench to starting positions. The team also recalls experienced figures including Jordie Barrett and Damian McKenzie to the starting XV.
Background
The All Blacks entered this match following an opening tour victory against the Stormers. Bradley Slater joined the squad five days prior to this selection as an injury replacement for George Bell. Head Coach Dave Rennie indicated the team selection accounts for a short turnaround between games and the specific physical style of South African opposition.
Key Facts
- Match Location: Hollywoodbets Kings Park Stadium, Durban.
- Kick-off Time: Tuesday 7:00 PM local time (5:00 AM Wednesday NZT).
- Captaincy: Luke Jacobson (27 appearances) replaces the previous lead.
- New Caps: Bradley Slater and Semisi Ta'eiloa named as debutants.
- Starting XV: Ethan de Groot, Asafo Aumua, Fletcher Newell, Josh Lord, Sam Darry, Tupou Vaa’i, Wallace Sititi, Luke Jacobson (C), Kyle Preston, Ruben Love, Caleb Clarke, Jordie Barrett, Quinn Tupaea, Fehi Fineanganofo, Damian McKenzie.
What Happens Next
The match will be broadcast live on Sky Sport, with highlights to follow on official digital platforms. The coaching staff noted that the squad had limited preparation time due to the schedule, focusing on adapting to the Sharks' playing style.
Sources reviewed
Project Chintan independently synthesized and analyzed information cross-checked across the sources listed above.
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