Winger Caleb Clarke plays first Test since 2020 as All Blacks name team to face Boks

All Blacks coach Ian Foster has named his team to tackle the Springboks in a Rugby Championship Test at Mbombela Stadium on Saturday.

In a new-look front row, Samisoni Taukei'aho will start at hooker alongside tighthead prop Angus Ta'avao. New faces make up the front-row cover on the bench, with Tyrel Lomax and Ethan de Groot included for the first time this year.

The tight five welcomes back lock Scott Barrett from injury, while Akira Ioane retains his spot at blindside flanker in the loose forward trio, alongside captain Sam Cane and Ardie Savea.

Another feature of the run-on side is the return of winger Caleb Clarke. The 23-year-old was ruled out of the Ireland series due to injury and will play in his first All Blacks Test since 2020.

Can't wait to see Caleb back in the black jersey ?? pic.twitter.com/Z9IM2xjRVd

"What a great way to start this year's Rugby Championship. It's always an exciting tournament to be part of," Foster said in a statement. "This year's draw means we have a massive challenge of two games here in the South Africa.

"We have settled in well in Mbombela and are preparing for what is always an intense game against our old foe.

"Many of our squad are here in South Africa for the first time. This gives us another opportunity to add new experiences and grow our game."

The All Blacks are under pressure, having lost four of their last five Tests. It included a 2-1 home series loss to Ireland last month.

Kick-off is at 17:05 on Saturday.

Teams:

South Africa

15 Damian Willemse, 14 Kurt-Lee Arendse, 13 Lukhanyo Am, 12 Damian de Allende, 11 Makazole Mapimpi, 10 Handre Pollard, 9 Faf de Klerk, 8 Jasper Wiese, 7 Pieter-Steph du Toit, 6 Siya Kolisi (captain), 5 Lood de Jager, 4 Eben Etzebeth, 3 Frans Malherbe, 2 Malcolm