The All Blacks head south to Wellington this week to welcome the Springboks, reeling somewhat after a disappointing finish to the match in Perth. New Zealand are probably a little worse for wear in the injury department but still haven’t tasted defeat since 2012. Heyneke Meyer will be desperate for his team to put down a marker to build confidence ahead of the South African leg of the Championship.
Morné Steyn has paid the price for a poor defensive performance against Australia, giving way to Handré Pollard and missing out on selection entirely with Patrick Lambie retained on the bench. Elsewhere the side is unchanged, with captain Jean de Villiers set to join newly-minted Bryan Habana in the century cap club. Ruan Pienaar clings tenuously to the no9 jersey in what will be his 80th test appearance.
New Zealand are without Sam Whitelock and Liam Messam this week, out with bangs to the ribs and quadriceps respectively. Jeremy Thrush, who impressed after replacing Whitelock last week, gets the start with Patrick Tu’ipulotu taking his spot on the bench. After much speculation it’s Steven Luatua, not Sam Cane, who runs out on the flank.
In better news Aaron Cruden has recovered from a pectoral injury to reclaim the no10 jersey, with unfortunate Beauden Barrett returned to the reserves. Had Barrett’s goal kicking been on song last week it might have been a more difficult decision between the two. The only other change sees Cory Jane brought back in the squad at the expense of Malakai Fekitoa, with Ben Smith set to provide midfield cover.
It would take some bravery to predict a South African win this week. The only advantage the visitors seem to have is around the lineout, where the absence of Whitelock will be noted. Everywhere else points to a New Zealand win, with the weather not looking to be much of a factor. The Springboks will have to play more rugby this week to have any chance at all, and the home side are just a class above in that department. Take the All Blacks by 12.
NEW ZEALAND vs SOUTH AFRICA
Saturday, September 13, 07:35 GMT, Wellington
Referee: Jérôme Garcès (FFR)
Assistants: Pascal Gaüzère (FFR) & Rohan Hoffman (ARU)
TMO: Peter Marshall (ARU)
