Head Coach Dave Rennie has officially announced his 23-man match-day squad for the tour opener in South Africa. Consequently, the official All Blacks team named to play Stormers will take the field this Friday, August 7, at DHL Stadium in Cape Town. This exciting fixture marks the opening clash of the historic Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry Tour.
Patrick Tuipulotu to Captain the Side
Experienced lock Patrick Tuipulotu will lead the team as match-day captain. This marks the second time he wears the captain’s armband, following his leadership role against Japan in October 2024. He forms a powerful second-row partnership alongside Fabian Holland.
Meanwhile, the starting front row features George Bower, hooker Samisoni Taukei’aho, and Pasilio Tosi. In the back row, Simon Parker and Peter Lakai start on the flanks, with Wallace Sititi packing down at number eight.
“We’re well aware of how good this Stormers side is,” said Head Coach Dave Rennie. “They are a big, physical side with talented youngsters and Springboks, so we are preparing for a real war of attrition.”
Two Uncapped Debutants Named on the Bench
The bench highlights an exciting milestone for two players. Prop Siale Lauaki and inside back Josh Jacomb are set to make their official debuts in the black jersey. Additionally, seven players will make their first appearance for the national side this calendar year.
In the backline, Cortez Ratima and veteran fly-half Beauden Barrett will direct play from the halves. Rieko Ioane and Leroy Carter occupy the wings, while Anton Lienert-Brown pairs with Billy Proctor in the midfield. Fullback Josh Moorby rounds out the starting fifteen.
All Blacks Match-Day 23 Lineup
Here is the full squad for the match against the Stormers:
- Starting XV: 1. George Bower, 2. Samisoni Taukei’aho, 3. Pasilio Tosi, 4. Fabian Holland, 5. Patrick Tuipulotu (C), 6. Simon Parker, 7. Peter Lakai, 8. Wallace Sititi, 9. Cortez Ratima, 10. Beauden Barrett, 11. Rieko Ioane, 12. Anton Lienert-Brown, 13. Billy Proctor, 14. Leroy Carter, 15. Josh Moorby.
- Replacements: 16. Asafo Aumua, 17. Ollie Norris, 18. Siale Lauaki*, 19. Sam Darry, 20. Ethan Blackadder, 21. Kyle Preston, 22. Josh Jacomb*, 23. Caleb Clarke. (*denotes uncapped player)
Match Details and Historic Background
The match kicks off at 7:10 PM local time (5:10 AM Saturday NZT). Interestingly, this is the first official meeting between the side and the Stormers franchise. However, the team previously played predecessor Western Province five times between 1928 and 1976. Overall, the national side holds 17 wins from 25 historical matches in Cape Town.
Are you eager to follow every minute of the action live? Check out our complete All Blacks 2026 Schedule for all fixture dates. For supporters traveling to Cape Town, explore our comprehensive All Blacks 2026 Tickets Guide. Don’t forget to visit our main Rugby News Hub for daily squad updates, and view live standings on World Rugby.