Rennie to ring the changes for Baltimore battle?
The All Blacks have to win the fourth Test to get a draw out of the series.
New Zealand coach Dave Rennie, unlike South Africa's Rassie Erasmus, is reportedly contemplating freshening up his lineup for the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry Test series finale in Baltimore this Saturday. Erasmus has relied on a largely consistent group of players for the first three Tests, and intends to keep the same team for the decisive match in Baltimore.
The All Blacks secured the first Test victory at Ellis Park, but lost the remaining two Tests in Cape Town and at the FNB Stadium. A win for New Zealand in the upcoming match would result in a 3-1 series triumph, while a Bok victory would secure a draw. Rennie is expected to make changes to his team, citing the need for new energy and players who can share the workload.
He has already made it clear that he plans to introduce fresh faces, with Patrick Tuipulotu likely to take on the role of captain in Rennie's absence. Ethan de Groot, Josh Lord, Ethan Blackadder, and experienced players such as Richie Mo’unga, Beauden Barrett, Anton Lienert-Brown, and Rieko Ioane could also be considered for selection.
Despite being two Tests down, Rennie remains confident that his team still possesses the necessary drive to level the series. Rennie will announce his final lineup on Thursday.
Written by urgent.news from The Citizen's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
