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Beauden Barratt named All Blacks captain in much changed team for Wales test

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In short

Coach Dave Rennie introduced sweeping modifications across the squad, including German-born flanker Anton Segner making his first All Blacks start. The forward pack sees Asafo Aumua, George Bower, and Josh Lord drafted into the starting eight. In the backline, flyhalf Richie Mo’unga returns from a calf injury alongside scrumhalf Cortez Ratima, while wing Fehi Fineanganofo steps in for Will Jordan.

Key points

  • The All Blacks will field a heavily rotated lineup featuring multiple personnel changes f…: The All Blacks will field a heavily rotated lineup featuring multiple personnel changes for Saturday's test in Cardiff.
  • Anton Segner and Fehi Fineanganofo have both been elevated to earn their first starting a…: Anton Segner and Fehi Fineanganofo have both been elevated to earn their first starting appearances for the national side.
  • Veteran midfielder Anton Lienert-Brown will earn his 95th test cap while replacing Jordie…: Veteran midfielder Anton Lienert-Brown will earn his 95th test cap while replacing Jordie Barrett in the starting backline.

Sources checked by our analysis pipeline: 1

EDINBURGH, Nov 12 : Veteran back Beauden Barrett has been named as New Zealand captain for the first time as coach Dave Rennie on Thursday rotated his line-up for Saturday's Nations Championship clash against Wales in Cardiff.

• Barrett will extend his record as world rugby's most-capped back when he takes over as skipper from Codie Taylor in his 149th test

• Taylor is replaced at hooker by Asafo Aumua and George Bower comes in at prop in place of Ethan de Groot

• Josh Lord has been chosen ahead of Fabian Holland in the second row, while German-born Anton Segner makes his first All Blacks start on the flank, replacing Tupou Vaa'i

• There is also a first start for wing Fehi Fineanganofo, who comes in for the injured Will Jordan to win his second cap, while veteran Anton Lienert-Brown earns a 95th cap in place of Jordie Barrett at centre

• There is a new halfback pairing as Richie Mo’unga plays at number 10 and Cortez Ratima at scrumhalf. Mo’unga missed last month’s Bledisloe Cup clashes against Australia…

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