Foster picks big guns in New Zealand team to face Springboks

New Zealand have named a strong line-up, including all three Barrett brothers, for their final Rugby World Cup warm-up fixture against South Africa at neutral Twickenham on Friday (7.30pm).

Coach Ian Foster has selected the same backline that helped beat the Springboks 35-20 during the Rugby Championship in Auckland last month.

Changes from that team include Luke Jacobson replacing injured Shannon Frizell at flanker, Sam Whitelock coming in for Brodie Retallick in the second row and Dane Coles replacing Codie Taylor at hooker.

Foster is keen to give his team a good run ahead of their World Cup opener against France in Paris on 8 September and this presents an excellent opportunity to do so against the old enemy and reigning world champions, who face Ireland in their third Pool B match in Paris on 23 October.

"This is our final game before the Rugby World Cup and this test is critical in our preparation," Foster said. "With just two weeks to go, it's an important opportunity to get us battle-ready for the start of the tournament.

"These games (against South Africa) are always intense and physically challenging, and I’m sure this one will be no different."

Aaron Smith is at scrum-half with Richie Mo'unga in the number 10 jersey, and Rieko Ioane making up the midfield pairing with Jordie Barrett. The back three contains wings Mark Telea and Will Jordan, and Beauden Barrett.

Ardie Savea is at number 8 with captain Sam Cane and Jacobson as flankers, the second row is made up of Scott Barrett and Whitelock, while props Tyrel Lomax and Ethan de Groot pack down either side of Coles.

The All Blacks have made an impressive start to 2023, beating Australia twice to go with wins over Argentina and South Africa, a far cry from their wobbles