New Zealand beat Australia 50-14 in the opening Bledisloe Cup Test at Eden Park, extending their remarkable unbeaten run at the venue. The All Blacks led 17-14 at half-time, then dominated after the break.
Bledisloe Cup Build-Up
Codie Taylor will captain a 34-strong All Blacks squad for the two-Test Bledisloe Cup series against the Wallabies. Head coach Dave Rennie has named his side to face Australia at Eden Park in Auckland on Saturday 10 October, with kick-off at 7.10pm NZT, live on Sky Sport.
Wallabies centre Len Ikitau has been cleared of injury to start in Saturday’s Bledisloe Cup opener after limping off with an ankle concern. All Blacks star Cam Roigard insisted the players are doing everything they can to improve their issues under the high ball ahead of this weekend’s encounter.
Legal and Disciplinary Developments
New Zealand Rugby (NZR) has moved to protect the Chiefs brand by filing proceedings in the High Court of New Zealand against a decision by the Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC).
World Rugby has confirmed a disciplinary decision in respect of Danelle Lochner (South Africa) following a red card issued during the WXV Global Series.
Super Rugby AUS Round Two
Super Rugby AUS continues into Round Two as a host of stars return for this weekend’s fixtures. The Western Force will unveil returning players ahead of their match.
Club and International News
Exeter Chiefs look set to benefit from World Rugby Test regulations in the coming weeks, with Wallabies star Tom Hooper primed to make his Premiership return. The 25-year-old forward can play across the back row.
Leinster and Ireland have suffered another setback, with captain Caelan Doris expected to remain sidelined until at least the new year after complications delayed his recovery from surgery.
Former Scotland U20 captain Liam McConnell accepts he has work to do if he is to force his way into the Scotland squad for next year’s Rugby World Cup, after enjoying a breakthrough year.
Head coach Mark Mapletoft has selected his coaching staff for England A’s clash with Argentina XV this November. England A open their campaign at The Rec in Bath on Friday 6 November.
Upcoming Fixtures
Australia face New Zealand at Accor Stadium on Saturday 17 October, with kick-off at 16:45. Japan host the Fijian Drua at Chichibunomiya Rugby Stadium on 24 October, while the USA meet Australia A at Geodis Park on the same day, at 20:00. The USA and Australia A meet again at Sports Illustrated Stadium Harrison on Friday 30 October. England A then host Argentina XV at The Recreation Ground on 6 November, at 19:45.