New Zealand have been hit hard ahead of next weekend’s Bledisloe Cup showdown in Perth, with Beauden Barrett ruled out after suffering a shoulder injury in Auckland.

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The veteran fly-half limped off during the first half of Saturday’s 33-24 victory over Australia, a result that sealed the Bledisloe Cup once again and kept the All Blacks’ Rugby Championship hopes alive.

To make matters worse, prop Ethan de Groot has been sidelined after failing his HIA, while doubts remain over Caleb Clarke (ankle) and Tupou Vaa’i (knee).

“We’ve got a few bodies we need to look after,” assistant coach Jason Ryan admitted.
“And it’s an opportunity to look at everyone in our squad too, potentially.

“We’ve got to go up a notch because what we’re learning in second Tests is that everyone gets better.”

Barrett’s absence opens the door for Damian McKenzie, who stepped off the bench at Eden Park and is now tipped to start in Perth.

The Wallabies, meanwhile, will be boosted by the return of powerhouse forwards Will Skelton and Rob Valetini as they look to hit back on home soil.

Barrett’s setback also casts real doubt over his involvement in the All Blacks’ northern hemisphere tour next month, leaving Ian Foster with fresh headaches as the season reaches its crunch point.

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“Not good enough” – Four Springboks and one England star in 2025 World XV

South Africa and New Zealand dominate the line-up, with France and Italy also making strong contributions.

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World XV

1. Ox Nché (South Africa — Loose-head Prop)

The Springboks’ scrum weapon. Ox Nché’s combination of power, technical precision, and low-body positioning has humbled some of the best tight-heads in the world. He’s been in relentless form, topping performance charts and setting the tone for South Africa’s physical dominance.

2. Dan Sheehan (Ireland — Hooker)

Ireland’s dynamic hooker was a constant bright spark in 2025—scoring tries, leading the set-piece, and offering a constant carrying threat. His Lions tour was standout, even if it ended in controversy with a short suspension. Sheehan’s blend of skill and aggression makes him arguably the most in-form No. 2 in the world.

3. Tyrel Lomax (New Zealand — Tight-head Prop)

Now firmly established as the All Blacks’ anchor on the tight-head side, Lomax offers brute force in the scrum and strong contributions in the loose. His work rate around the field complements his set-piece reliability.

4. Eben Etzebeth (South Africa — Lock)

A veteran enforcer who still plays with the same bite he had a decade ago. Etzebeth’s line-out presence, defensive steel, and leadership remain vital to every team he represents. A genuine intimidator.

5. Maro Itoje (England — Lock)

Captain of the victorious Lions in Australia, Itoje led with both physicality and composure. His tour performances were tireless—dominating the air, disrupting opposition ball, and setting the emotional tone for the squad.

6. Tadhg Beirne (Ireland — Lock/Back-Row)

A turnover machine and line-out threat, Beirne’s versatility makes him a coach’s dream. Whether at blindside or in the second row, he consistently delivers work rate, breakdown steals, and intelligent support play.

7. Pieter-Steph du Toit (South Africa — Lock/Back-Row)

Known for his tireless tackling and unmatched work ethic, du Toit thrives in the big moments. His ability to shift between lock and flanker adds valuable flexibility to any pack.

8. Ardie Savea (New Zealand — No. 8)

A one-man highlight reel, Savea mixes explosive ball-carrying with clever link play and crucial turnovers. His leadership and athleticism make him indispensable for the All Blacks.

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