The All Blacks have been at the center of major rugby news in July 2025, making headlines both for their squad selections and on-field achievements. On July 5, 2025, the All Blacks made history by becoming the first international rugby team to achieve 500 Test match wins, securing a victory against France at Forsyth Barr Stadium in Dunedin[4].
Coach Scott Robertson, along with selectors Scott Hansen and Jason Ryan, named a 33-player squad for the July Lipovitan-D Test series against France. The selection struck a balance between continuity and the introduction of new talent, with 25 players returning from the 2024 Northern Tour and five uncapped players earning their first chance in the black jersey. The squad integrates representatives from all six New Zealand Super Rugby Pacific franchises[2].
Scott Barrett returns as captain, supported by vice-captains Ardie Savea and Jordie Barrett. Notably, Jordie Barrett enters camp fresh off a United Rugby Championship win with Leinster Rugby, while Scott Barrett captained the Crusaders to a record 15th Super Rugby championship[2]. The All Blacks management highlighted the significance of leadership within the squad, aiming to mentor and integrate the new faces quickly for a seamless transition[3].
The five uncapped players named are Ollie, Brodie, Fabian, Du’Plessis, and Timoci, all recognized for their Super Rugby Pacific form and work ethic. The squad also welcomes back hooker Samisoni Taukei’aho and midfielder Quinn Tupaea, both returning after long-term injuries[3].
The All Blacks have kept their squad largely unchanged for the second Test against France, which takes place at Sky Stadium in Wellington on July 12, with France making 10 lineup changes after the first Test. Defensive improvements and maintaining consistency are reported to be the team’s focus heading into the Wellington match[4].
The three-test Lipovitan-D series schedule is as follows:
- July 5: All Blacks vs France, Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin
- July 12: All Blacks vs France, Sky Stadium, Wellington
- July 19: All Blacks vs France, FMG Stadium, Hamilton
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