All Blacks forced into late change after training ground injury

The All Blacks have been forced into a late reshuffle ahead of Saturday’s Bledisloe Cup clash in Perth, with lock Tupou Vaa’i ruled out after suffering a training ground injury.

Vaa’i took a knock to his right knee during Thursday’s session and will return to New Zealand for further assessment by a specialist next week.

His absence opens the door for Fabian Holland to step into the starting side, with Patrick Tuipulotu promoted to provide cover from the bench.

The injury is a blow to Scott Robertson’s side as they prepare for the second Bledisloe Test, which doubles as the final fixture of this year’s Lipovitan-D Rugby Championship.

The Perth clash closes out what has been the most competitive Rugby Championship in recent memory, with all four sides having traded blows across the campaign.

While the Bledisloe Cup may already be secured, there is still plenty riding on the contest as Robertson’s men look to bring momentum into their northern tour.

The updated All Blacks match-day 23 to face Australia is:

1. Tamaiti Williams
2. Codie Taylor
3. Fletcher Newell
4. Scott Barrett
5. Fabian Holland
6. Simon Parker
7. Ardie Savea
8. Peter Lakai
9. Cam Roigard
10. Damian McKenzie
11. Leicester Fainga’anuku
12. Jordie Barrett
13. Quinn Tupaea
14. Leroy Carter
15. Will Jordan

Replacements:
16. Samisoni Taukei’aho
17. George Bower
18. Pasilio Tosi
19. Patrick Tuipulotu
20. Wallace Sititi
21. Cortez Ratima
22. Rieko Ioane
23. Ruben Love