The All Blacks are scheduled to play Italy in the Nations Championship today in Wellington. The match, which is the second Test under head coach Dave Rennie, will take place at the Cake Tin, with kick-off set for 5:10 PM. This fixture marks the All Blacks’ return to Wellington following a previous loss to the Springboks in September 2025.
The All Blacks aim to build on their recent 34-32 victory over France in Christchurch, which was Rennie’s first Test in charge. Historically, the All Blacks have maintained an undefeated record against Italy, pursuing an 18th consecutive win against the Azzurri. Rennie has indicated that the team selection reflects the respect held for the Italian side.
Team selections and key players
The All Blacks’ lineup features experienced players such as Codie Taylor and Ardie Savea, who will captain the side. Ruben Love continues at first-five, with Damian McKenzie retained at fullback. Notably, Beauden Barrett, a player with Test appearances, has been omitted for the second consecutive week.
The team’s defence will be a focus after conceding 32 points and four tries against France, including three first-half high-tackle penalties. One of these penalties resulted in a yellow card for Love early in the match.
The Italian team includes Michele Lamaro as captain, alongside players like Paolo Garbisi and Tommaso Allan. Malik Faissal is listed with one Test appearance.
Match history and tournament context
The All Blacks and Italy have met on 17 occasions, with the All Blacks winning all of these encounters. The last time Italy played the All Blacks in New Zealand was 17 years ago in Christchurch, where the home side won 27-6. Italy’s recent form includes a 27-10 loss to Japan in their opening Nations Championship game, despite an early lead.
The Nations Championship is an inaugural tournament featuring 12 teams from the Southern and Northern Hemispheres, including the Six Nations teams, the four Sanzaar nations, Japan, and Fiji. This match is round two of the competition. Following this game, the All Blacks are scheduled to play Ireland at Eden Park before embarking on a four-Test tour of South Africa next month.
Travel and match-day information for Wellington
Wellington’s forecast for match day is mostly cloudy with a top temperature of around 8C and a 20% chance of rain, advising fans to dress warmly for the evening at Hnry Stadium.
Metlink is providing additional capacity on the Hutt Valley, Kapiti, and Johnsonville train lines before kick-off, with extra services after the Test concludes. The Wairarapa Line’s 6:55 PM service has been rescheduled to 7:20 PM to accommodate fans post-match. Extra bus services will also operate after the game, and the harbour ferry has an additional sailing from Queens Wharf around 7:30 PM, requiring prior bookings.
Match tickets can be used as a Metlink pass on the day, valid for bus and train travel to and from the Test, excluding Airport Express buses, harbour ferry services, and Total Mobility taxis. Further details on fares and timetables are available via the Metlink app or website.
The referee for the Test is Luc Ramos from France, assisted by Nic Berry and Luke Pearce. Ramos has previously officiated an Italy match, their 23-18 victory over England in the Six Nations.
Source: 1news.co.nz
