All Blacks Plan Major Changes and Test Debuts for Cardiff Clash Against Wales

New faces and returning stars are set to headline a heavily altered All Blacks lineup for Sunday's clash against Wales at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, starting at 3.10am.

Squad Changes and Debuts

Josh Jacomb and Saula Ma'u are both tipped to come off the bench to earn their first test caps. Jacomb prepares to move from the Chiefs to the Highlanders to lead their attack next year, while the 26-year-old Tongan-born prop Ma'u steps up following an injury absence to Tyrel Lomax, bringing a 140kg frame that offers strong scrummaging potential. Richie Mo'unga returns after missing five weeks with a calf tear, hoping to build match fitness following an early recovery aided by staying with the squad. Fehi Fineanganofo also returns after injury setbacks limited him to mid-week games since his July debut, with dry conditions under the stadium roof expected to suit his style. Leicester Fainga'anuku is set to feature as a hybrid player covering the loose forwards, midfield, and wing.

Leadership and Selection

Selector Neil Barnes confirmed the team is embracing a rare chance to rotate the squad, noting strong competition across many positions. With Ardie Savea and Luke Jacobson out for the year, and Jordie Barrett and Will Jordan unavailable, leadership options include former captain Scott Barrett or brother Beauden, while regular captain Codie Taylor may be rested after a heavy workload.

Context

Wales enters the match ranked 10th in the world, sitting one spot behind Fiji, and has not beaten the New Zealand side in 73 years. Squad rotation is a common strategy for top rugby teams against lower-ranked opponents to test emerging talent and manage player fatigue over long tours.