Key Highlights
- Rivez Reihana gets his first start on tour against Uruguay.
- The match will be played in Beziers, France on Monday morning (NZT).
- The All Blacks aim to complete a perfect record during their three-match tour.
- Coach Jamie Joseph familiarizes with Uruguay’s playing style and tactics.
New Zealand’s Rugby Giants: Preparing for an Abrasive Test Against Uruguay
The New Zealand rugby team, known as the All Blacks, has named their starting XV for a crucial match against Uruguay on Monday morning (NZT) in Beziers, France. The match is part of a three-game tour that includes victories over the Barbarians and England A.
Rivez Reihana’s Breakthrough Moment
Among the notable changes in the lineup is Rivez Reihana, who will start at 10 for his first appearance on tour. Reihana was a key contributor to the Crusaders’ Super Rugby title and has impressed off the bench during previous matches this tour.
The Challenge Ahead
Coach Jamie Joseph’s team faces a tough challenge from Uruguay, who have recorded test wins against Portugal and Romania but were defeated by Argentina in their last match. Joseph acknowledges the South American side’s passionate playing style and emphasizes the need to be prepared for a gritty game.
Match Details
The match will take place on Monday morning (NZT) in Beziers, France. Key players named in the XV include Jacob Ratumaitavuku-Kneepkens, Chay Fihaki, Braydon Ennor, Dallas McLeod, Etene Nanai-Seturo, Rivez Reihana, Folau Fakatava, Dalton Papali’i (captain), Sean Withy, Te Kamaka Howden, Caleb Delany, Josh Beehre, George Dyer, Bradley Slater, and Josh Fusitu’a. The reserves are Daniel Rona, Josh Jacomb, Xavier Roe, Kaylum Boshier, Devan Flanders, Benet Kumeroa, Siale Lauaki, and Brodie McAlister.
Coach’s Insights
“I’ve coached against them three times. They bring passion, South American emotion, a very passionate team,” Joseph said. “They wear their hearts on their sleeves and play in the same kind of way. very abrasive in the defence side of things and go hard at the breakdown.” He further noted that Uruguay loves mauling and scrumming, which is expected to be a significant aspect of the game.
“We’re expecting a real gritty game and no doubt they’ll get into us up front and try to put us under pressure there,” Joseph added. “We’ve just got to make sure that we can weather the storm.”
Conclusion
The All Blacks are aiming for a perfect record during their three-match tour, which has already seen victories over the Barbarians and England A. With a strong Uruguay side posing a significant challenge, the team will need to be at their best on Monday morning in Beziers. The match is scheduled for 15 November 2025.
