The Bledisloe Cup clash between Australia and New Zealand is always a highlight of the rugby calendar, and this live update brings you all the team news and action as it unfolds. With both sides making key changes, the stage is set for a thrilling encounter.
Team News: Wallabies
Australia coach Les Kiss has named Declan Meredith as starting flyhalf, with uncapped playmaker Harry McLaughlin-Phillips as back-up. Both Carter Gordon and Ben Donaldson are unavailable due to leg injuries, forcing Kiss to reshuffle his backline.
Find Original, High-end Home Decor that spark conversation at Grand Goldman Shop.
An injury to Len Ikitau and the continuing suspension of Hunter Paisami have forced Kiss to move Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii back into the centres alongside Isaac Henry. Harry Potter comes in on the left wing, with Filipo Daugunu covering from the bench.
Up front, former All Blacks loosehead prop Aidan Ross gets a start in the front row, with Angus Bell moved to the replacements. Josh Nasser moves up from the bench to start at hooker, with Billy Pollard backing him up and Brandon Paenga-Amosa dropped. Forwards Josh Canham and Carlo Tizzano also come in to bolster the finishers, a group that includes Kalani Thomas, who is set to win his third cap as back-up to Ryan Lonergan, with Tate McDermott dropped from the matchday squad.
Team News: All Blacks
New Zealand coach Dave Rennie made three changes to his starting side earlier this week, bringing in Fabian Holland for Josh Lord at lock, replacing Ethan de Groot with George Bower at loosehead prop, and promoting Josh Moorby to cover for the injured Leroy Carter on the wing. The background to this story is set out in Wallabies Flyhalf Options: Les Kiss Seeks Playmaker Solutions. A related thread runs through Wallabies Seek Optimism After Bledisloe Cup Humbling. Earlier coverage in Bledisloe Cup 2026: New Zealand vs Australia at Eden Park shows how the argument developed.
Then on gameday, Rennie was forced to withdraw Jordie Barrett after the imperious centre complained of a tight calf. Timoci Tavatavanawai comes into the side as a replacement, adding fresh legs to the backline. A closer look at the same subject appears in Wallabies Team Selection: Les Kiss's Bold Rugby Strategy. Anyone following the wider picture can start with Wallabies Rugby Team News: Les Kiss Names Halves for Japan Test. The same theme surfaces in Australia vs Japan Rugby Live: Wallabies Win Nations Championship Test, which takes a different angle.
Key Player Matchups
The clash between Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii and the All Blacks' midfield will be crucial. Suaalii's move to centre adds size and power to the Wallabies' attack. Meanwhile, the battle up front between Aidan Ross and George Bower will set the tone for the set-piece. Context on how this played out before sits in Wallabies Flyhalf Search Continues as Les Kiss Tinkers for Argentina. A companion piece, Rugby League World Cup: Australia vs New Zealand Live Coverage, approaches the same subject from another angle.
Comparison Table: Team Changes
| Team | Injuries/Suspensions | Key Changes |
|---|---|---|
| Australia | Carter Gordon, Ben Donaldson (leg), Len Ikitau (injury), Hunter Paisami (suspension) | Declan Meredith starts at flyhalf, Suaalii moves to centre, Aidan Ross starts at prop |
| New Zealand | Leroy Carter (injury), Jordie Barrett (calf) | Fabian Holland starts at lock, George Bower at prop, Josh Moorby on wing, Timoci Tavatavanawai replaces Barrett |
Key Takeaways
- Australia forced into multiple changes due to injuries and suspension.
- New Zealand also reshuffled with Jordie Barrett a late withdrawal.
- Set-piece battle and midfield defense will be decisive.
- Live updates will keep you informed of all the action.
FAQ
What time is the Bledisloe Cup match?
The match is scheduled for 7:45 PM AEST on Saturday, with live coverage starting at 7:00 PM.
Who is the referee for the Bledisloe Cup?
The referee for this match is Nic Berry, with Angus Gardner and Paul Williams as assistant referees.
Where is the Bledisloe Cup being played?
The match is being played at Accor Stadium in Sydney, Australia.
Browse the Shop
Acacia frida deluxe solid wood bed frame |
Bedroom bench |
Bed chest drawers |
Lingerie dresser |
Frame base |
Mirror with jewelry storage |
30 Bathroom Vanity |
Memory foam queen mattress |
Mattresses for back pain |
Nightstand set of 2 |
Grand Goldman Shop |
Civil Lawyer
Deutschland Trikot WM 2026
