The All Blacks finished a hard-fought rugby series against France with a 29-19 win in Hamilton, completing a 3-0 series sweep. The victory came despite early trouble, including a last-minute injury to player Luke Jacobson before kickoff.
The New Zealand team, led by coach Scott Robertson, fielded a young and mostly untested lineup. The match at Waikato Stadium began with some struggles. France took an early 10-0 lead, with Nolann Le Garrec scoring the first try. The All Blacks made several mistakes, missing line-outs and pushing risky passes.
Will Jordan scored a try after a clever kick from Cortez Ratima, and Anton Lienert-Brown powered over the line just before halftime. New Zealand trailed 17-19 at the break.
After the half, Du’Plessis Kirifi scored his first Test try, helping the All Blacks take the lead. Brodie McAlister later scored a try that sealed the win in the final minutes, following a strong run by Jordie Barrett.
The All Blacks scored four tries in total. Damian McKenzie added three conversions and a penalty. France replied with one try, three penalties, and a drop goal.
