Rennie Names 36-Man Squad for US Finale

The All Blacks are making significant adjustments to their team, releasing nine players from their touring squad as they prepare for the final showdown in the Rugby's Greatest Rivalry series on U.S. soil. Injuries have sidelined three key players following their recent match against the Springboks, where they suffered a narrow 29-24 loss.

Those injured in the clash include team captain Ardie Savea, who has a dislocated shoulder, Quinn Tupaea with an MCL injury, and Luke Jacobson who is out with an elbow injury. Their absence will undoubtedly be felt in the upcoming match.

Further changes see six players leaving the squad without further participation in this year’s series: Josh Jacomb, Siale Lauaki, Saula Ma’u, Cortez Ratima, Bradley Slater, and Ofa Tu’ungafasi. This reshuffle reflects the team’s strategy to bring fresh legs and focus to the crucial final test.

"The gap between us is not big at all."

Dave Rennie expressed confidence in the capabilities of his revised squad for the next game. His optimism highlights the depth and potential within the team, despite recent setbacks.

Last Sunday, Rennie announced a 36-man squad ready to face off in Baltimore at the M&T Bank Stadium. The All Blacks are eyeing a victory that could equalize the series after the Boks’ recent win gave them a 2-1 lead in the contest.

All Blacks squad:
Forwards:
1. Asafo Aumua
2. Codie Taylor
3. Samisoni Taukei’aho
4. Ethan De Groot
5. Tyrel Lomax
6. Fletcher Newell
7. Pasilio Tosi
8. George Bower
9. Xavier Numia
10. Jamie Hannah
11. Sam Darry
12. Josh Lord
13. Patrick Tuipulotu
14. Fabian Holland
15. Tupou Vaa’i
16. Simon Parker
17. Wallace Sititi
18. Peter Lakai
19. Ethan Blackadder
20. Semisi Ta’eiloa
Backs:
21. Cam Roigard
22. Kyle Preston
23. Noah Hotham
24. Beauden Barrett
25. Ruben Love
26. Richie Mo’unga
27. Jordie Barrett
28. Anton Lienert-Brown
29. Timoci Tavatavanawai
30. Fehi Fineanganofo
31. Leroy Carter
32. Emoni Narawa
33. Rieko Ioane
34. Josh Moorby
35. Will Jordan
36. Damian McKenzie

The upcoming fixture promises to be a thrilling encounter as the All Blacks aim to draw the series and prove their resilience. With new faces in the lineup and strategic adjustments in place, the stage is set for a memorable battle in Baltimore.