The All Blacks have confirmed that captain Scott Barrett will miss the remainder of the Test series against France.
The Springboks remain in top spot in the World Rugby rankings following the weekend's action but the All Blacks have managed to close the gap.
The All Blacks were made to sweat in their 2025 season opener before edging a determined and understrength France side 31-27 in Dunedin to take a 1-0 series lead.
British and Irish Lions chief executive Ben Calveley has confirmed there is interest in future matches against new opponents but insists there are no plans to change the three traditional tours.
All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson has named his first squad of the year, who will face off with France over a three Test series.
After a superlative season with Moana Pasifika, All Blacks superstar Ardie Savea will miss the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season to play in Japan.