The All Blacks will take on France in Christchurch on 4 July during the 2026 Nations Championship. Dave Rennie chose Jacobson although most expected Barrett. It is Rennie’s first major game as coach. Fans debate why Barrett isn’t playing. Sir John Kirwan admitted he would have picked Barrett but still backs Rennie’s choice. Kiwi papers now are buzzing with talk over the starting XV and how ready they are for France.