All Blacks v Wales: Rare rotation embraced for Cardiff

Detailed summary

Sunday, All Blacks v Wales, Principality Stadium, Cardiff, 3.10am. Two test debuts headline the likely widespread changes expected for the All Blacks team to face Wales. Soon-to-b…

Richie Mo’unga’s return from five weeks on the sideline with a calf tear is expected to headlin the much-altered All Blacks for Wales.

An initial eight-to-10 week projected setback threatened to end Mo’unga’s season but remaining with the All Blacks squad while injured has allowed him to fast-track his recovery.

After featuring in one test – the loss to the Springboks in Baltimore – since returning from Japan, Mo’unga is eager to build some rhythm in his comeback.

Multiple injury setbacks have restricted the lethal Hurricanes finisher, the joint Super Rugby Pacific try-scoring record holder alongside teammate Josh Moorby, to two mid-week matches in South Africa since his test debut off the bench in early July.

Dry conditions under the Principality Stadium roof should pave the way for Fineanganofo, and others, to cut loose against Wales.

Leicester Fainga’anuku’s first All Blacks appearance under Dave Rennie – and first at test level as a genuine hybrid player who can cover loose forward, midfield and wing – sparks widespread anticipation, too.

Fainga’anuku is expected to feature in the loose forwards from the bench but, depending on the match circumstances, he could be used across three backline roles.

There’s plenty to play for in the loose forward ranks where Ethan Blackadder, Anton Segner and Christian Lio-Willie are expected to combine.

While Peter Lakai and Tupou Vaa’i are likely locked in the starting trio for England at Twickenham next week, Segner in particular could force his way into the mix with a strong performance against Wales.

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