All Blacks recall Fifita as part of new-look back row for Argentina clash

Flanker Vaea Fifita, who sparked New Zealand’s home win over Argentina in this season’s Rugby Championship, has been recalled to the All Blacks’ starting line-up for tomorrow’s return match in Buenos Aires.

New Zealand were trailing Argentina after 54 minutes at New Plymouth earlier this month until Fifita scored a brilliant solo try which helped spur a 39-22 All Blacks win.

Fifita will play in a new-look back row, anchored by skipper Kieran Read, in which openside Matt Todd will play his first Test of the season.

Scott Barrett and Luke Romano were named in an allnew second row and winger Waisake Naholo will play only his second Test of the season after sustaining a concussion in the second Test against the British and Irish Lions.

Crusaders utility back David Havili, who can cover fullback, winger and midfield, is set to make his Test debut off the bench. Beauden Barrett will start at No 10 after initially being rested for the match.

Barrett was recalled when Lima Sopoaga was forced to drop out of the squad because of the impending birth of his first child. Barrett will play beside inside centre Sonny Bill Williams, who continues to be picked despite poor form.