All Blacks team named for RWC2019 Bronze Final against Wales

Oct 30 • General News, International, National, New Zealand, Rugby World Cup, Rugby World Cup News, World Rugby • 2175 Views • Comments Off on All Blacks team named for RWC2019 Bronze Final against Wales

The All Blacks team has been named to play Wales in the Rugby World Cup 2019 Bronze Final at Tokyo Stadium, Tokyo, on Friday 1 November (Kick-off: 6.00PM, 10.00PM NZT)

The matchday 23 is as follows (Test caps in brackets):

Joe Moody (44)
Dane Coles (68)
Nepo Laulala (24)
Brodie Retallick (80)
Scott Barrett (35)
Shannon Frizell (8)
Sam Cane (67)
Kieran Read – captain (126)
Aaron Smith (91)
Richie Mo’unga (16)
Rieko Ioane (28)
Sonny Bill Williams (56)
Ryan Crotty (47)
Ben Smith (83)
Beauden Barrett (82)
Liam Coltman (7)
Atu Moli (7)
Angus Ta’avao (13)
Patrick Tuipulotu (29)
Matt Todd (24)
Brad Weber (4)
Anton Lienert-Brown (41)
Jordie Barrett (16)

All Blacks Head Coach Steve Hansen said: “This was a tough team to select because, as always, everyone wanted to play. But with a short turnaround and the nature of the Tournament, we feel that this is the right team for this occasion.

“There’s been alot of external talk around this being the game that no one wants to play. However, from our point of view, we can’t wait to play it. Everyone in the squad – players and management – are motivated by the opportunity to show that our last performance wasn’t at the high standard that we know we can play at.

“This is a Test match against an opposition that will also be keen to make a statement. Therefore, we will need to turn up with real attitude, intent and work ethic, and then execute our skillsets to the highest level possible. The game will be physical and fast as both teams will look to play to their strengths. We are looking forward to it and can’t wait.”

In conclusion, Hansen said: “Whilst none of us – players, management or fans – got the result we wanted at this Tournament, this is another opportunity for us to wear the jersey and represent our country with pride. On behalf of the All Blacks, we’d like to thank our fans for all their ongoing, unconditional support. It’s something that we never take for granted and is greatly appreciated by us all within the team.”