'Size & Physicality' - All Blacks' Team vs France Gets BIG Tick of Approval from Nigel Yalden

On the DSPN today, host Martin Devlin and rugby analyst Nigel Yalden dissect the newly named All Blacks side to face France in the first test in Dunedin. The pair praise the selectors for backing up their words with bold decisions. They discuss prop Ethan de Groot’s redemption and leadership role, lock Fabian Holland’s physicality and debut potential, and Ardie Savea’s roaming freedom at openside. The loose forward trio, featuring Christian Lio-Willie, gets the thumbs up for physicality and balance. While Beauden Barrett starts this first test of 2025 at first-five, they expect Damian McKenzie to get at least one start before the Rugby Championship begins. In midfield, Jordie Barrett and Billy Proctor get the nod, with Rieko Ioane shifting to the wing. Overall, Nigel loves the direction of the team - physical, direct, and purposefully selected. 00:00 Introduction 01:23 Nigel's Thoughts on ABs Front Row and Loosies 03:43 All Blacks' Depth at Prop 05:28 Ethan de Groot on a Redemption Path? 06:54 Vaa'i at Blindside Adding Extra Height 08:08 'All Blacks Selectors Have Kept Their Word' 08:45 How Kirifi and Savea will be used 10:43 Roigard/Beauden Barrett = 9/10 Combo for 2025 13:06 Change in Midfield & Rieko Ioane at Wing 16:22 The Niggle Ioane Brings 17:15 Excitement ahead of 1st test of 2025 #allblacks #nzrugby #rugby #rugbyunion #rugbypodcaast #nz #newzealand #france #francerugby #springboks #springboksrugby #southafrica Website: rova.nz/podcasts/dspn-devlin-sports-podcast-network Instagram: @martindevlin_dspn TikTok: @martindevlin_dspn