All Blacks Prepare for Final Series Test in Baltimore with Revised Squad

A revised All Blacks squad of 36 has arrived in the United States to prepare for the fourth and final test of the 'Rugby's Greatest Rivalry' series. The team travelled to Baltimore on a charter flight alongside their opponents, the Springboks, following a hard-fought 29-24 result in Soweto on Sunday morning. RNZ sports reporter Joe Porter reports that nine players will return to New Zealand and miss the final fixture. Among those ruled out through injury are captain Ardie Savea, who scored two tries in the third test before suffering a dislocated shoulder, and Luke Jacobson, who sustained an elbow injury while leading the side in Savea’s absence. Midfielder Quinn Tupaea is also returning home after sustaining a knee injury during the match. Despite the injuries, the squad remains focused on the upcoming match, which kicks off at 9am Sunday (NZT) in Baltimore. The travelling forwards include Asafo Aumua, Codie Taylor, Samisoni Taukei’aho, and Patrick Tuipulotu, while the backline features experienced players such as Beauden Barrett, Rieko Ioane, and Damian McKenzie alongside rising talents like Ruben Love and Cam Roigard. Six additional players—Josh Jacomb, Siale Lauaki, Saula Ma'u, Ofa Tu'ungafasi, Cortez Ratima, and Bradley Slater—are also heading home ahead of the final clash. The South African side currently leads the series 2-1, but the All Blacks are determined to finish their international tour on a high note in front of American fans.