Patrick Tuipulotu to captain All Blacks against Japan

Patrick Tuipulotu will lead the All Blacks as captain for the first time, supported by seasoned vice-captains Sam Cane and Anton Lienert-Brown, who bring a combined experience of 179 Test matches to the team.

Two players, loose forward Peter Lakai and outside back Ruben Love, are set to make their All Blacks Test debuts as impact players, while Pasilio Tosi will make his first start at prop.

Tosi will be joined by Tamaiti Williams and Asafo Aumua in the front row, with Sam Darry partnering Tuipulotu in the lock positions. Wallace Sititi steps into the number 8 jersey, with Samipeni Finau playing at blindside flanker, and Cane rounding out the loose forward trio on the openside.

Halfback Cameron Roigard makes his return to the All Blacks for the first time in 2024, while Stephen Perofeta, back from injury, will start at fullback. Billy Proctor will earn his second cap at centre, with Mark Tele’a and Sevu Reece on the wings. Damian McKenzie completes the backline at first five-eighth.

On the bench, the front row replacements will be Ofa Tu’ungafasi, Fletcher Newell, and George Bell, who will play in his second All Blacks Test. Josh Lord will provide cover at lock, while TJ Perenara, David Havili, and debutant Ruben Love will offer backline support.

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Head Coach Scott Robertson expressed his excitement about the start of the Northern Tour.

“We’ve had a fantastic few days in Tokyo, and the energy within the team as we begin this tour is great to see. We’re ready to bring that energy to the field against Japan, as we know they will play a fast, attacking style,” Robertson said.

He also acknowledged the debutants, Ruben and Peter, as well as the returning players, Cam and Stephen, who have worked hard to recover from injuries. Additionally, he congratulated Patrick Tuipulotu on his captaincy, describing him as a leader with great mana and experience.

“The hospitality we’ve received in Japan has been humbling, and we’re keen to repay that support with a performance to be proud of on Saturday,” Robertson added.

This match marks the first time the All Blacks and Japan will meet at Nissan Stadium in Yokohama, as they compete for the Lipovitan-D Challenge Cup.