Dutch powerhouse, Wallabies-eligible prop in contention as All Blacks eye surprise selections for July series against France

The recently announced All Blacks squad to face France features five new players, including a prop eligible for the Wallabies and an imposing lock from the Netherlands.

Ollie Norris, a loosehead from the Chiefs, was born in Sydney, making him eligible to represent Australia, but he’s now embracing the All Blacks jersey after being selected in Scott Robertson’s 33-man squad on Monday.

At just 25 years old, Norris had played as a No.8 throughout his high school years in New Zealand, before transitioning to the front row after adding significant bulk.

All Blacks forwards coach Jason Ryan stated, “Ollie’s background as a former loose forward means he brings speed and agility to the prop position.”

“His body composition needed to align with the demands of the role, and I believe he’s achieved that preparation.” 

While Norris embraces his All Blacks commitment, his teammate Aidan Ross from the Chiefs is available to represent the Wallabies against the British and Irish Lions.

Originally from Gosford, Ross has signed with the Queensland Reds and will be eligible to represent Australia following their meeting with Fiji in Newcastle on July 6.

He previously played one Test for the All Blacks against Ireland in 2022.

Another player making waves is towering Highlanders lock Fabian Holland, who continues to impress and has secured a spot in the Test series kicking off on July 5 in Dunedin.

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Remarkably, Holland hails from the Netherlands and moved to New Zealand at the age of 16 to pursue his ambitious dream of playing rugby.

“My dream ignited when I was just five years old,” Holland revealed in an interview in 2021.

“I will relentlessly pursue that dream and remain dedicated towards achieving it.”

The 22-year-old Holland now stands at a towering 204cm.

“He performed admirably to earn his selection. He’s incredibly diligent, tough, and brings a significant presence as an international lock,” Robertson noted.

Joining Norris and Holland as uncapped players are Hurricanes flanker Du’Plessis Kirifi, Highlanders utility back Timoci Tavatavanawai, and Chiefs hooker Brodie McAlister.

“Kirifi’s journey highlights the ultimate pursuit of someone eager to become an All Black,” Ryan said of the 28-year-old, who shares a name with former Springbok captain Morne du Plessis.

“He’s showcased remarkable perseverance. Despite facing challenges since his initial exposure to the All Blacks in 2020, his leadership experiences with Wellington and the Hurricanes have highlighted his readiness for this opportunity.” 

Injury has ruled out five players: Asafo Aumua (hamstring), Ofa Tu’ungafasi (neck), Sam Darry (shoulder), Peter Lakai (knee), and Stephen Perofeta (leg).

Crusaders No.8 Christian Lio-Willie and Chiefs winger Emoni Narawa have joined the squad as injury replacements for Luke Jacobson and Anton Lienert-Brown.

ALL BLACKS SQUAD

Hookers: Codie Taylor, Samisoni Taukei’aho, Brodie McAlister

Props: Ethan de Groot, Tamaiti Williams, Ollie Norris, Tyrel Lomax, Fletcher Newell, Pasilio Tosi

Locks: Scott Barrett (c), Patrick Tuipulotu, Tupou Vaa’i, Fabian Holland

Loose forwards: Samipeni Finau, Ardie Savea, Du’Plessis Kirifi, Wallace Sititi, Luke Jacobson

Halfbacks: Cam Roigard, Cortez Ratima, Noah Hotham

Five-eighths: Beauden Barrett, Damian McKenzie

Midfielders: Anton Lienert-Brown, Jordie Barrett, Rieko Ioane, Quinn Tupaea, Billy Proctor, Timoci Tavatavanawai

Outside backs: Caleb Clarke, Sevu Reece, Will Jordan, Ruben Love