All Blacks Name Squad for Wellington Test Against Italy in Nations Championship

The All Blacks have selected their lineup for a Nations Championship encounter against Italy at Wellington's HNRY Stadium, with head coach Dave Rennie introducing new players while maintaining experienced combinations. The squad includes three players earning their first All Blacks caps, while veteran forward Tyrel Lomax reaches his 50th Test appearance.

Squad Composition and Selection Strategy

Rennie and fellow selectors Neil Barnes and Sir Graham Henry have constructed a team designed to reflect the challenge posed by Italy. The selection demonstrates a deliberate balance between maintaining proven partnerships and providing opportunities for emerging talent. Three new caps will feature: Josh Moorby and Anton Segner join the squad following recent debuts by Xavier, Fehi, and Jamie against France. Lomax, who debuted in 2018 against Japan, reaches a significant milestone with his 50th Test for the nation.

The front row sees one change from the previous fixture, with Lomax joining Codie Taylor and Ethan de Groot. A restructured reserve front row featuring George Bower, Samisoni Taukei'aho, and Pasilio Tosi provides what the coaching staff describes as significant impact potential. Tupou Vaa'i has recovered from concussion to partner Sam Darry at lock, displacing Josh Lord to an impact role on the bench.

Back Division Changes

The backline features tactical adjustments, with Jordie Barrett and Billy Proctor forming the midfield pairing against Italy. Leroy Carter starts on the left wing, completing a back three with Will Jordan and Damian McKenzie. Anton Lienert-Brown enters reserve consideration, while Josh Moorby represents the new generation on the replacements bench. Wallace Sititi takes the blindside flanker position, with debutant Segner providing loose forward cover.

Historical Context

The All Blacks' recent record at Wellington has been inconsistent, with three losses, two wins, and one draw across their last six fixtures at the venue, including a 43-17 defeat to South Africa in September 2025. Against Italy specifically, the New Zealand side holds a commanding historical advantage. Their last meeting occurred 17 years ago in Christchurch, which finished 27-6 to the All Blacks. Italy has only played three Tests in New Zealand against the All Blacks. In their opening Nations Championship match, Italy suffered a 27-10 defeat to Japan despite an early lead, with their centre Ignacio Brex scoring first before conceding multiple tries within the opening 20 minutes.

The Nations Championship represents a new tournament format featuring 12 teams split into two pools, combining the Six Nations, the four SANZAAR nations, Japan, and Fiji in a biennial structure matching the Southern and Northern Hemispheres.