Scott Robertson has called up five new faces for his first All Blacks class of 2025, with his 35-man squad for next month’s series against France named. 

Following a spate of injuries and departures offshore, Robertson has put his faith in four newcomers to face Les Bleus, themselves weakened by an inability to select from their full complement for the tour opener. 

All Blacks regulars Dalton Papali'i, Ethan Blackadder, and David Havili have been left out of the squad to play France next month. 

The 33-player group features five uncapped players - Ollie Norris, Brodie McAlister, Fabian Holland, Timoci Tavatavanawai, and Du'Plessis Kirifi. 

Nick Bewley told Ryan Bridge that it’s tough to pick an All Blacks team, and the challenge now is for Robertson to whittle it down to 23 players for match day.  

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