Four Blues players have been named in the 2025 All Blacks squad for the Lipovitan-D Rugby Championship, giving local Blues fans plenty to look forward to.

Patrick Tuipulotu’s return to top form after injury has secured his place in the locking stocks.

Beauden Barrett remains a key playmaker, sharing first five duties with Damian McKenzie.

Rieko Ioane is back in the black jersey, and Caleb Clarke has also been selected, though he’ll stay in New Zealand early in the tournament to recover from an ankle injury.

Finlay Christie has been named as injury cover for the halfback group.

The Championship kicks off with two Tests in Argentina before the team heads home for matches against South Africa and Australia in September.

For Coasties, this means a chance to see some of New Zealand’s best rugby talent on home soil, with Auckland’s Eden Park hosting clashes against South Africa on 6 September and Australia on 27 September.

Whether you’re heading to the stadium or watching from home, there’s no shortage of local pride in seeing Blues players represent the country.

All Blacks Rugby Championship Fixtures (NZT):

• 16 Aug, 9.10am – Argentina, Córdoba
• 23 Aug, 9.10am – Argentina, Buenos Aires
• 6 Sep, 7.05pm – South Africa, Eden Park
• 13 Sep, 7.05pm – South Africa, Wellington
• 27 Sep, 5.05pm – Australia, Eden Park
• 4 Oct, 10.45pm – Australia, Perth

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