The All Blacks’ first task of 2025 will be a three-Test series against France in July with matches in Dunedin, Wellington and Hamilton.
When Robertson named his first All Blacks squad in 2024, having taken over as head coach from Ian Foster, he included five uncapped players in his team, namely George Bell, Pasilio Tosi, Wallace Sititi, Cortez Ratima and Billy Proctor.
He also named Scott Barrett as the side’s captain for the year, with the lock taking over from veteran flanker Sam Cane.
Looking ahead to 2025, the second-rower is expected to continue in the leadership role, with Ardie Savea making a strong case to replace him.
All Blacks squad naming
There are some injury concerns already for Roberston with Crusaders full-back Will Jordan ruled out for the remainder of the Super Rugby Pacific season.
The outside back is currently sidelined with an MCL knee problem, while Chiefs centre Anton Lienert-Brown has broken his collarbone and could be out for even longer.
Robertson isn’t overly concerned about Jordan, though.
“Will – we’re pretty confident [about] – it’s just Anton that may push the timeline,” Robertson said on Sport Nation with Scotty Stevenson and Israel Dagg
The injury to Lienert-Brown could open the door for Billy Proctor to add to his two Test caps for the All Blacks, while it could also lead to a maiden call-up for Highlanders star Timoci Tavatavanawai.
Those decisions will be revealed when Robertson names his 35-man All Blacks squad for the series against the French on June 23.
New Zealand Rugby have confirmed that the naming of the first squad will be broadcasted live on Sky Sports from midday (New Zealand time) from the Coastal Rugby Club in Taranaki, with NZ Rugby Chair David Kirk reading out the names.
Robertson is expected to select 20 forwards and 15 backs in his squad.
France were set to send an understrength team to Aotearoa for the clash with head coach Fabien Galthie unable to select players featuring in the French Top 14 final as well.
However, FFR president Florian Grill has revealed that discussions are underway about a possible exception for the All Blacks.
All Blacks v France fixtures
All Blacks v France
Date: Saturday, July 5
Venue: Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin
Local time: 19:05
All Blacks v France
Date: Saturday, July 12
Venue: Sky Stadium, Wellington
Local time: 19:05
All Blacks v France
Date: Saturday, July 19
Venue: FMG Stadium Waikato, Hamilton
Local time: 19:05
Src: Planetrugby.com - https://www.planetrugby.com/news/all-blacks-when-scott-robertson-will-name-his-35-man-squad-to-face-france
