Rennie makes five changes as Will Jordan closes in on All Blacks try record against Italy

Dave Rennie has named five changes to his All Blacks starting XV for the Test against Italy in Wellington, with Tyrel Lomax set to earn his 50th cap and two potential debutants waiting on the bench.

Lomax comes into the front row alongside Ethan de Groot and Codie Taylor, while Tupou Vaa’i returns from injury to start at lock next to Sam Darry. Wallace Sititi is the other change in the pack, joining Luke Jacobson and Ardie Savea in the loose forward trio.

In the backline, the halfback pairing of Cam Roigard and Ruben Love continues, with Hurricanes club teammates Jordie Barrett and Billy Proctor — who came off the bench last week — starting together in midfield. Leroy Carter takes the left wing, Damian McKenzie starts at fullback, and Will Jordan lines up on the right wing just three tries short of the All Blacks’ all-time try-scoring record.

Cortez Ratima is the only player retained from last week’s bench, with Josh Lord and Anton Segner in line for their first caps. Josh Moorby is also among the reserves as a potential debutant.

“There are a number of players and combinations who we felt deserved and would benefit from a second successive run, and other players who have earned the right to get their opportunity,” Rennie said.

“We are excited for Josh and Anton to potentially earn their first All Blacks caps, following Xavier, Fehi and Jamie’s debuts against France. Congratulations to Tyrel Lomax, who also brings up a special milestone, playing his 50th All Blacks Test.”

Rennie was emphatic that the selection reflects genuine respect for the opposition. “This is a strong side to reflect the respect we have for this Italian team. They have shown through the Six Nations competition that they are capable of knocking over any team, so we have prepared for a tough challenge and look forward to facing it in front of a sold-out Wellington crowd.”

Italy’s improved form in recent seasons — most notably their victories in the Six Nations — means the All Blacks are taking nothing for granted despite a dominant recent head-to-head record.

All Blacks XV: Ethan de Groot, Codie Taylor, Tyrel Lomax, Sam Darry, Tupou Vaa’i, Wallace Sititi, Luke Jacobson, Ardie Savea, Cam Roigard, Ruben Love, Leroy Carter, Jordie Barrett, Billy Proctor, Will Jordan, Damian McKenzie.

Reserves: 16. Samisoni Taukei’aho, 17. George Bower, 18. Pasilio Tosi, 19. Josh Lord, 20. Anton Segner, 21. Cortez Ratima, 22. Anton Liener-Brown, 23. Josh Moorby.