All Blacks lose third lock as Tuipulotu injury hands Hannah debut against France

Patrick Tuipulotu has been ruled out of the All Blacks’ Test against France with a tight calf, leaving coach Dave Rennie without three of his senior locks for the fixture. Crusaders lock Jamie Hannah, originally called up as an injury replacement for Tupou Vaa’i following his Super Rugby Pacific final concussion, will now move onto the bench in Tuipulotu’s place.

The All Blacks confirmed no further changes to the matchday 23, meaning Hannah — a hometown selection — is set for his Test debut. Rennie is already without Vaa’i and Scott Barrett, making the lock position one of the most disrupted in his squad heading into the match.

“There is no doubt players have forced our hand as selectors through quality Super Rugby performances,” Rennie said after naming the team. “We have selected an exciting blend of experience and youth, with a powerful bench that will add impact.”

Rennie acknowledged the scale of the challenge his side faces, pointing to France’s set-piece strength and ability to keep the ball alive. “We know we will be facing a formidable French side with a strong set piece, kicking game and ability to keep the ball alive, so we will need to be physical, accurate and alert,” he said. “We’ve worked hard and connected well over the past nine days. That clarity will give us the opportunity to express ourselves.”

The All Blacks will line up with Ethan de Groot, Codie Taylor and Fletcher Newell in the front row, Josh Lord and Sam Darry in the second row, and a back row of Peter Lakai, Luke Jacobson and captain Ardie Savea. Cam Roigard starts at scrum-half with Ruben Love at fly-half, while Damian McKenzie fills the fullback role behind a backline that includes Will Jordan, Caleb Clarke, Quinn Tupaea and Jordie Barrett.