Squad Unveiled for Northern Hemisphere Challenge
The New Zealand All Blacks officially announced their 36-man squad for the 2025 European tour, often referred to as the 'Grand Slam tour' or 'Autumn Nations Series'. Head Coach Scott Robertson made the selections public on October 12th and 13th, 2025, ahead of the demanding schedule of international fixtures. The tour represents a significant challenge for the squad, with Robertson describing it as a 'special moment' and an 'exciting challenge' for the team.
Key Selections and Injury Updates
The squad features a blend of experienced players and emerging talent, with few major surprises in Robertson's selections, indicating a focus on continuity. Prop Tevita Mafileo stands out as the sole uncapped player included in the main All Blacks touring party. In a notable change at hooker, George Bell earned a spot, replacing Brodie McAlister. The team is navigating some key absences due to injury, with prominent tight-five forwards Tyrel Lomax and Tupou Vaa'i sidelined. Their places have been filled, with Josh Lord stepping in for Vaa'i.
Tour Progress and Upcoming Fixture
The All Blacks' 2025 Northern Tour commenced with a match against Ireland on November 1 at Soldier Field in Chicago, USA. Following this, the team traveled to Europe, where they faced Scotland on November 8 at Murrayfield in Edinburgh, and then England on November 15 at Twickenham in London. The tour is set to conclude with their final fixture against Wales on November 22 at Principality Stadium in Cardiff. These matches are part of the broader Autumn Nations Series, testing the All Blacks against some of the Northern Hemisphere's top rugby nations.
All Blacks XV Also on Tour
In parallel with the main squad, an All Blacks XV squad was also announced on October 14th, 2025. Coached by Jamie Joseph, this development squad is undertaking its own tour, with fixtures scheduled in England against the Barbarians and England A, as well as a match against Uruguay. This initiative aims to provide valuable playing time and experience for a wider pool of New Zealand rugby talent.
5 Comments
Leonardo
This challenging schedule will only make them stronger. Bring on Wales!
paracelsus
The blend of experience and youth is good for stability, but I wonder if Robertson is being too cautious with his selections. Sometimes you need a few left-field choices to spark something new.
anubis
While it's great to see some new faces getting a look-in, the injuries to key forwards like Lomax and Vaa'i could really test their depth. Hope the replacements step up.
eliphas
This tour is definitely a huge challenge and will be exciting to watch, but playing Ireland, Scotland, and England before Wales is a massive physical toll. They need to manage player welfare carefully.
anubis
Bell over McAlister? Not convinced that was the right call for hooker.