Beauden Barrett is set to return as the flyhalf for the All Blacks for the first time in nearly two years in the upcoming Bledisloe Cup test against Australia on Saturday. Since his last appearance in the No. 10 jersey for New Zealand against Scotland in November 2022, Barrett has mainly played as a fullback, with Richie Mo’unga and Damian McKenzie taking turns at flyhalf.

Barrett was on the bench for the second Rugby Championship test against South Africa and was slated to play at fullback in the first test against Australia last weekend but was sidelined due to illness. Despite his absence, New Zealand emerged victorious, securing their 22nd consecutive Bledisloe Cup title.

New Zealand’s head coach, Scott Robertson, has favored McKenzie as his primary flyhalf during his tenure. However, following McKenzie’s errors in the previous test against Australia, which almost led to a defeat after a significant lead, Robertson may be seeking more reliable decision-making from his playmakers.

The All Blacks have struggled to close out matches this season and have not scored a single point in the final quarter of their last five tests. Robertson continues to search for solutions to this late-match issue within the team.

In preparation for New Zealand’s final home match this season, Robertson announced changes for the lineup, with Anton Lienert-Brown partnering with Rieko Ioane in midfield due to Jordie Barrett’s injury. Jordie Barrett’s knee injury from the last match puts his participation in the autumn tour of Britain and France in doubt.

Former captain Sam Cane is set to mark a milestone as he plays his 100th test match, joining the exclusive club of New Zealanders to reach this achievement. Beauden Barrett will also mark his 131st test, elevating him to 10th on the list of the world’s most-capped players alongside Ireland’s Cian Healy.

Both Cane and T.J. Perenara, who will play at scrumhalf for their final test matches in New Zealand before moving overseas, will receive special recognition. The reserves bench will feature McKenzie, who provides cover for both first-five and fullback, along with David Havili and Patrick Tuipulotu returning from injury.

Robertson expressed excitement about the upcoming match against the Wallabies and looks forward to a complete and strong performance from his team in Wellington. The Australia team lineup is expected to be announced later on Thursday.