Ian Foster has made four changes to his All Black starting XV, as he prepares his team for a match which could define his future as head coach.
The All Blacks were well-beaten in Mbombela Stadium last week against the same opposition, their fifth defeat in six games.
After losing two games on a Northern Hemisphere tour for the first time since 1936, New Zealand lost a home series for the first time in 28-years as they were beaten 2-1 against Ireland (having led the series), and have now slipped to their lowest-ever World Ranking of fifth.
Foster’s win percentage of 64 is the lowest of any All Blacks coach for 42 years, with several coaches in the interim either being sacked or resigning before their contracts have expired with much higher win percentages, and defeat at Eden Park could bring a premature end to his tenure.
There are two new props as Ethan de Groot comes in for George Bower, while Tyrel Lomax replaces Angus Ta’avo, who is the only player in last week’s squad to drop out altogether.
Beauden Barrett is only fit enough for the bench following last week’s nasty collision with Kurt-Lee Arendese, as Richie Mo’unga swaps in, while Shannon Frizell comes in on the blindside for Akira Ioane.
Foster remained in positive spirits ahead of the clash, confident that his side can overturn the 16-point margin needed to win the Freedom Cup contested between the two sides annually, which has not been won by their opponents since 2009.
“Belief and confidence remain high in our group, which is working incredibly hard this week,” said Foster.
“Playing at Ellis Park is always a special occasion for any All Black team, and this weekend will be no different.
“Adding to that, the Freedom Cup is on the line which makes this a challenge that everyone is looking forward to.”
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