Get ready for an exciting rugby adventure as the All Blacks embark on their 'Grand Slam' tour! But here's the catch: they've got some serious challenges ahead.
The All Blacks, fresh from missing out on the Rugby Championship title for two consecutive years, are under pressure to finish the 2025 season with a bang. However, key player absences make this tour tougher than it seems.
While Wales and Scotland are ranked lower, Ireland and England pose a real threat, being top-five ranked teams. So, let's dive into the four critical areas the All Blacks need to address on this tour.
Hooker Dilemma: Finding the Third Option
The All Blacks have recalled George Bell to replace Brodie McAlister. Bell, a 2024 debutant with four caps, has been playing for Canterbury since his Super Rugby Pacific days with the Crusaders. McAlister's performance in the second Test against South Africa has cost him his spot, leaving the All Blacks searching for their third hooker.
The loss of Asafo Aumua due to injury has left a void in the hooker department. Aumua last played for the All Blacks in Italy in 2024, and injuries have kept him sidelined this year. Codie Taylor has been exceptional, and Fabian Holland has become a lineout cheat code, winning free ball. Samisoni Taukei'aho has also been a reliable replacement, with the lineout and maul contributing to the All Blacks' win in the first Test against Argentina.
George Bell, a powerful ball carrier, needs to prove himself in high-pressure situations. He's unlikely to play against Ireland or England but could get his chance against Scotland or Wales.
Lock Concerns: A Big Loss
The absence of Tupou Vaa'i and Patrick Tuipulotu is a significant blow. The All Blacks are a stronger team with these locks, as proven during Scott Robertson's tenure. Vaa'i was indispensable in 2024 and considered one of the world's best. The return of Tuipulotu from injury in 2024 added experience and power to the bench, which also featured Aumua.
With Josh Lord and Sam Darry back in the mix, the coaches hope they can step up and become viable Test players. If they fail, the All Blacks' bench woes may resurface, which has been a challenge for Robertson.
In five of the six losses under Robertson, the All Blacks were ahead or tied at halftime, showing the importance of a strong bench.
Stability at Halfback: Roigard's Run
The All Blacks have been blessed with stability at halfback throughout the 2010s, with Aaron Smith and TJ Perenara rarely absent. Since 2023, injuries have plagued the halfback position, including Roigard.
Cam Roigard, the clear first-choice option at No.9, needs to stay healthy throughout this tour. With just 13 caps, the coaches want to see him gain more experience before 2027. Roigard's impact was evident against the Wallabies at Eden Park, where he scored two tries.
Last year, he returned to the All Blacks bench for the first two games and then outplayed Antoine Dupont in Paris, showcasing his potential.
Backline Questions: Finding the Right Fit
There are still questions surrounding the backline selections. We know the capabilities of Damian McKenzie and Beauden Barrett at No.10, and Will Jordan at No.15. However, Ruben Love's potential at these positions remains uncertain.
If Love is the third choice at first five, he needs more game time. Scotland and Wales could be ideal opponents to test him. He also needs more experience at fullback, as two of his four caps have been brief wing stints.
The coaches should give Love more freedom and manage Barrett's minutes better, considering his age.
With Leicester Fainga'anuku back, there's excitement about his midfield potential. The All Blacks found a gem in Quinn Tupaea at 13, and now it's Fainga'anuku's turn to showcase his skills. He could be the powerful No.12 the All Blacks have been missing since Ma'a Nonu.
Fainga'anuku should start in the midfield on this northern tour, ideally at No.12.
So, there you have it! The All Blacks' 'Grand Slam' tour is full of challenges and opportunities. Will they find the answers they need? Let's find out together!
What do you think? Do you agree with these assessments? Share your thoughts in the comments!
