WELLINGTON, New Zealand — In a significant move, head coach Scott Robertson of the All Blacks has chosen to debut fresh talent in the upcoming rugby test against Japan set for Saturday in Yokohama. This match marks an opportunity for exploration within the team, with the inclusion of a new captain and two players earning their first caps.

Robertson had previously maintained a stable selection approach during the matches against England in July and throughout the Rugby Championship, opting for experimentation primarily during New Zealand’s test against Fiji in October. The forthcoming test against Japan, which serves as a precursor to the All Blacks’ four-match tour in the UK, France, and Italy this November, provides Robertson a chance to assess the depth of his larger squad of 36 players.

Lock Patrick Tuipulotu will lead the All Blacks for the first time in his 46th appearance, even with former captain Sam Cane also in the starting lineup. Cane, who is set to play in his 101st test, and center Anton Lienert-Brown will serve as vice-captains.

The All Blacks have also seen the rise of backrower Peter Lakai and fullback Reuben Love, both of whom are poised to make their test debuts from the substitutes bench. Additionally, several regulars who have been sitting out this season have been elevated into the starting lineup, including hooker Asafo Aumua, prop Pasilio Tosi making his first start, flanker Samipeni Finau, and winger Mark Telea. Fullback Stephen Perofeta returns from his injury while center Billy Proctor also gets a chance during his second test.

Scrumhalf Cam Roigard is back in the starting position after recovering from a knee injury sustained in Super Rugby back in March. Robertson has also chosen to keep Damian McKenzie at flyhalf, where he will continue to showcase his skills, starting for the eighth time out of nine tests this season.

“We have had a fantastic few days in Tokyo so far and the energy in the group as we kick off this tour is exciting to see,” Robertson expressed. “We will bring that energy when we face the Brave Blossoms on Saturday as we know that Japan will play a fast, attacking game.”

The selected team for New Zealand includes: Stephen Perofeta, Sevu Reece, Billy Proctor, Anton Lienert-Brown, Mark Telea, Damian McKenzie, and Cam Roigard; with Wallace Sititi, Sam Cane, Samipeni Finau, Patrick Tuipulotu (captain), Sam Darry, Pasilio Tosi, Asafo Aumua, and Tamaiti Williamson rounding out the starting fifteen. For reserves, the team includes George Bell, Ofa Tu’ungafasi, Fletcher Newell, Josh Lord, Peter Lakai, T.J. Perenara, David Havili, and Reuben Love.