All Blacks Introduce New Talent for Fiji Test Amid Injuries

New Zealand has introduced uncapped lock Sam Darry for their upcoming test against Fiji due to Patrick Tuipulotu needing rest following a recent series win against England. Several new faces might debut, including Wellington's Billy Proctor and Chiefs' Wallace Sititi, as the team aims for performance improvement.

New Zealand has called up uncapped lock Sam Darry for the Fiji test in San Diego on Friday, with Patrick Tuipulotu staying home to rest following their series win against England. Tuipulotu endured two grueling tests against Steve Borthwick's England shortly after recovering from knee ligament and ankle injuries sustained during Super Rugby.

All Blacks attack coach Leon MacDonald said Tuipulotu deserved a rest after 'two massive efforts' against a robust English squad. 'We just feel we need to look after him a little bit,' MacDonald stated to New Zealand media.

Darry, who plays for the Auckland Blues alongside Tuipulotu, is in contention for a test debut, potentially joining other uncapped players like Wellington's Billy Proctor and Chiefs' loose forward Wallace Sititi. Winger Caleb Clarke is also available after a rib injury recovery.

The 2-0 home series win over England was a solid beginning for new All Blacks coach Scott Robertson, although national media offered mixed reviews of the team's performance. MacDonald said the team has areas needing improvement and expects the newcomers to quickly adapt to their game plan.

'The expectation is we keep improving from our previous performances,' he noted. 'They look good in training, but when game pressure and fatigue set in, names and calls start to drop off. I'm confident that with more time together, our game in both attack and defense, as well as our set piece, will become smoother.'

(With inputs from agencies.)