All Blacks XV expect 'tough match' against Saffa-laden Barbarians

TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT: Dalton Papali’i will captain an exciting All Blacks XV squad against the Barbarians as the side starts its three-match European tour at GTech Stadium in Brentford on Saturday.

Papali’i is one of four capped All Blacks in the match-day 23 named by All Blacks XV Head Coach Jamie Joseph with experienced utility back David Havili also named to start in the No.12 jersey.

Papali’i (37 Tests) and Havili (30 Tests) are joined in the squad by two other capped All Blacks in halfback Kyle Preston and versatile back Braydon Ennor who will provide impact from the reserves.

#TeamAnnouncement: All Blacks make four changes for Ireland showdown 👇#Ireland #NewZealand #AllBlacks #NZLvIRE https://t.co/pZfSK0Yen5

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All Blacks XV head coach Jamie Joseph said: “We’re expecting three tough matches on this tour and the experience and leadership of Dalton and our other senior players will be valuable for what will be three exciting challenges.

“We’ve selected an exciting squad full of talented players who have a great opportunity to showcase their talents in a black jersey and on an international stage.”

Papali’i wears the No.7 jersey in a versatile loose trio combination with Devan Flanders and Kaylum Boshier, while Havili forms an experienced midfield with Daniel Rona.

The backline will be guided by first five-eighth Josh Jacomb with Etene Nanai-Seturo, Caleb Tangitau and Jacob Ratumatavuki-Kneepkens forming a back three full of attacking intent.

Former New Zealand U20 hooker Jack Taylor wears the black jersey at a senior level for the first time and starts between props Xavier Numia and George Dyer, while Caleb Delany joins the squad to take his place at lock next to Josh Beehre.

New Zealand XV: 15 Jacob Ratumatavuki-Kneepkens, 14 Caleb Tangitau, 13 Daniel Rona, 12 David Havilli, 11 Etene Nanai-Seturo, 10 Josh Jacomb, 9 Xavier Roe, 8 Devan Flanders, 7 Dalton Papali’i, 6 Kaylum Boshier, 5 Caleb Delany, 4 Josh Beehre, 3 George Dyer, 2 Jack Taylor, 1 Xavier Numia.
Replacements: 16 Bradley Slater, 17 Josh Fusitua, 18 Siale Lauaki, 19 Jamie Hannah, 20 Sean Withy, 21 Kyle Preston, 22 Rivez Reihana, 23 Braydon Ennor.

Date: Saturday, November 1
Venue: Gtech Community Stadium, London
Kick-off: 13.15 (13.15 GMT; 02.15, NZDT, Sunday, November 2)
Referee: Nic Berry (Australia)
Assistant referees: TBC (RFU appointment)
TMO: TBC (RFU appointment)