All Blacks Team vs Sharks: Luke Jacobson to Lead as Two Players Eye Debuts

The All Blacks Team vs Sharks has been confirmed for the second match of New Zealand’s Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry tour, with Luke Jacobson set to captain the side for the first time.

Head coach Dave Rennie has made major changes to the team following the 38-21 victory over the Stormers. Jacobson moves into the captaincy role and will start at openside flanker alongside Wallace Sititi and Tupou Vaa’i in a powerful back row.

All Blacks Team vs Sharks Brings Two Potential Debuts

The All Blacks Team vs Sharks also includes two players who could make their first appearances for New Zealand. Hooker Bradley Slater and loose forward Semisi Ta’eiloa have both been named on the bench.

Slater joined the squad only recently after George Bell was ruled out through injury, while Ta’eiloa was already part of Dave Rennie’s wider touring group. Both players now have an opportunity to earn their first All Blacks caps in Durban.

Dave Rennie Makes Major Changes

Rennie has rotated heavily for the Sharks clash, bringing several experienced players back into the starting lineup. Damian McKenzie, Jordie Barrett, Quinn Tupaea, Ruben Love, Tupou Vaa’i, Fletcher Newell and Ethan de Groot are among those returning to the XV.

The All Blacks Team vs Sharks includes Damian McKenzie at full-back, while Ruben Love and Kyle Preston form the halfback combination. Jordie Barrett and Quinn Tupaea will line up in midfield, with Caleb Clarke, Fehi Fineanganofo and McKenzie completing the back three.

All Blacks Team vs Sharks: Full Starting XV

New Zealand: Damian McKenzie, Fehi Fineanganofo, Quinn Tupaea, Jordie Barrett, Caleb Clarke, Ruben Love, Kyle Preston, Wallace Sititi, Luke Jacobson (captain), Tupou Vaa’i, Sam Darry, Josh Lord, Fletcher Newell, Asafo Aumua, Ethan de Groot.

Replacements: Bradley Slater, Ollie Norris, Pasilio Tosi, Ethan Blackadder, Semisi Ta’eiloa, Cam Roigard, Timoci Tavatavanawai and Emoni Narawa.

Jacobson Gets His First Chance to Captain the All Blacks

For Jacobson, the Sharks match represents a significant milestone. The Chiefs loose forward has earned Rennie’s trust since the coach took charge, and his first All Blacks captaincy gives him another opportunity to establish himself as an important leader.

Rennie described Jacobson as the obvious choice, pointing to his respect within the group, understanding of the game and leadership through his actions.

The All Blacks Team vs Sharks will take place at Kings Park in Durban on Tuesday, August 11. Kick-off is scheduled for 7pm local time.