Scott Barrett Returns to Lead New Zealand Against South Africa

New Zealand captain Scott Barrett returns from a broken finger to lead the team in their Rugby Championship test against South Africa. Former skipper Sam Cane also starts, forming a strong back row. The team selection by coach Scott Robertson shows confidence ahead of the game at Ellis Park.

New Zealand captain Scott Barrett has made a comeback from a broken finger to lead his side in the Rugby Championship test against South Africa at Ellis Park on Saturday. Returning to the fold alongside him is former skipper Sam Cane, who will start against the reigning world champions.

Barrett, who missed the first two tests against Argentina, returns to partner the in-form Tupou Vaa'i in the second row. Codie Taylor will start at hooker, flanked by props Tamaiti Williams and Tyrel Lomax, to form a robust front row. Simultaneously, Cane will join fellow flanker Ethan Blackadder and number eight Ardie Savea in the back row. Coach Scott Robertson revealed that Dalton Papali'i was ruled out with a thumb injury.

Robertson commented on Cane's selection, emphasizing his invaluable off-field contributions and leadership qualities. The starting lineup also includes Beauden Barrett at fullback, with Will Jordan and Caleb Clarke on the wings. Jordie Barrett and Rieko Ioane will be in the center, while Damian McKenzie and TJ Perenara take up the flyhalf and scrumhalf positions respectively. Robertson chose not to mimic the Springboks' 6-2 bench split, instead opting for a more traditional 5-3 ratio.

(With inputs from agencies.)