Scott Barrett Out with Injury: A Setback for the All Blacks
The All Blacks captain, Scott Barrett, has been ruled out for the rest of the series against France due to a calf injury. The news was confirmed this Tuesday morning, although no details were provided about the recovery time.
The announcement did not include information about possible replacements, but Patrick Tuipulotu, captain of the Blues, is considered an option to fill Barrett’s position in Wellington this weekend. Tupou Vaa’i could also be considered, given his performance in the number 6 position in Dunedin.
Barrett was substituted in the 58th minute of the thrilling 31-28 victory in Dunedin, where the All Blacks were forced to fight until the end against a weakened French selection.
Despite the defeat, the French team, with less experience, exceeded expectations in a match marked by constant TMO interventions.It is likely that Ardie Savea, one of the vice-captains along with Jordie Barrett, younger brother of Scott, will assume the team’s leadership.
Although he will no longer participate in the series against France, Barrett hopes to return for the first matches of the Rugby Championship against Argentina or in the expected consecutive tests against the Springboks, world champions.
