Scott Barrett returns to All Blacks for Bledisloe Cup

All Blacks lock Scott Barrett is set to return to Test rugby for the upcoming Bledisloe Cup opener against the Wallabies at Eden Park. His return follows a period of absence due to a sabbatical and surgeries on his ankle, Achilles, and a bulged disc in his back.

Barrett, who missed the recent series against the Springboks, noted that watching the matches from the sidelines allowed him to observe the importance of the set-piece battle. He expressed interest in addressing the scrummaging and lineout pressures that were central to South Africa's recent dominance.

Following the season-ending shoulder injury to Ardie Savea, coach Dave Rennie has named Codie Taylor as captain. Barrett expressed excitement about reintegrating into the squad and contributing to the team under the new leadership structure.