The All Blacks are gearing up to face Argentina in a highly anticipated match in Wellington this weekend. Despite being the favorites, the New Zealand team is not taking their opponents lightly after their shocking defeat in 2022.
Vice-captain Jordie Barrett acknowledges the threat that Argentina poses, especially considering their previous victory on Kiwi soil. The pain of that loss still lingers, motivating the All Blacks to put up a strong fight this time around.
With captain Scott Barrett and lock Patrick Tuipulotu sidelined due to injuries, Ardie Savea will lead the team, and Tupou Vai’i will step into the second row alongside Sam Darry. The return of Will Jordan from injury adds depth to the squad, with Beauden Barrett holding his ground at fullback.
Coach Scott Robertson is confident in Jordan’s abilities, despite his limited game time recently. Robertson also made the tough decision to start Anton Lienert-Brown over Rieko Ioane in the midfield, highlighting the fierce competition for spots in the team.
Lienert-Brown, a seasoned player with over 70 tests under his belt, draws inspiration from watching athletes at the Paris Olympics, recognizing the sacrifices they make for their sport. His commitment to the game reflects the All Blacks’ determination to start their Rugby Championship title defense on a high note.
While the All Blacks are favored to win, Robertson is wary of Argentina’s strength, especially their formidable forward pack and solid coaching. The team is fully focused on the task at hand and is determined not to let complacency get the better of them.
Moreover, the All Blacks will be looking to break their winless streak in Wellington, emphasizing the importance of starting the tournament strong before heading to South Africa for challenging matches against the world champions.
This weekend’s game against Argentina is not just about securing a victory but also about setting the tone for the rest of the Rugby Championship. The All Blacks are well aware of the challenges ahead and are prepared to face them head-on with determination and resilience.