New Zealand recall big guns for Springboks clash

Friday, 24 September 2021 00:50 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

New Zealand's Beauden Barrett has been recalled for Saturday's clash Patrick HAMILTON AFP

BRISBANE (AFP): New Zealand will return to full strength for the historic 100th Test match between the All Blacks and South Africa on Saturday as they seek to seal this year’s Rugby Championship.

Coach Ian Foster made eight changes to his starting line-up for the Test in Townsville, Australia recalling veterans including playmaker Beauden Barrett and influential lock Brodie Retallick.

Flanker Ardie Savea again captains the team after leading an experimental side to victory over Argentina last week.

Foster said he was excited to face South Africa for the first time since taking over as head coach after the 2019 World Cup, when the Springboks became world champions.

“This has got a bit of a legacy moment feel about it – 100 Tests and 100 years, it certainly makes it special, along with the fact we haven’t played South Africa for a couple of years,” he said.

But Foster said the All Blacks, who top the Rugby Championship table and can wrap up the tournament with a win, were not dwelling on the match’s historic importance.

“We are all aware of the history and legacy of this match and respect that, but the only way we can do justice to that is to prepare well and focus on what we have to do,” he said.

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