2020 Bledisloe Cup – New Zealand vs Australia Preview & Prediction

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THE FACTS

When is New Zealand vs Australia taking place? Sunday 11^th October, 2020 – 04:00 (UK)

Where is New Zealand vs Australia taking place? Sky Stadium, Wellington

Where can I get tickets for New Zealand vs Australia? This match will be played without spectators

What television channel is New Zealand vs Australia on? This match will be televised live on Sky Sports

Where can I stream New Zealand vs Australia? Sky Sports subscribers can stream the match live via Sky Go

THE TEAM NEWS

New Zealand: Beauden Barrett, Jordie Barrett, Rieko Ioane, Jack Goodhue, George Bridge, Richie Mo'unga, Aaron Smith, Ardie Savea, Sam Cane (c), Shannon Frizell, Sam Whitelock, Patrick Tuipulotu, Ofa Tuungafasi, Codie Taylor, Joe Moody

Reserves: Dane Coles, Karl Tu'inukuafe, Nepo Laulala, Tupou Vaa'i, Hoskins Sotutu, TJ Perenara, Anton Lienert-Brown, Caleb Clarke

Australia: Tom Banks, Filipo Daugunu, Hunter Paisami, Matt To'omua, Marika Koroibete, James O'Connor, Nic White, Harry Wilson, Michael Hooper (c), Pete Samu, Matt Philip, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Taniela Tupou, Folau Fainga'a, James Slipper

Reserves: Jordan Uelese, Scott Sio, Allan Alaalatoa, Rob Simmons, Rob Valetini, Jake Gordon, Noah Lolesio, Reece Hodge

THE PREDICTION

This opening Bledisloe Cup fixture looks set to be as bad-tempered as they get following a war of words between the two countries’ rugby associations over all manner of covid-19 related concerns. The test itself was not always a certain fixture but now it is set to be played it is down to the All Blacks and the Wallabies to try and live up to the drama off the field. The extra incentive to win here, as well as the return to competitive international rugby, should see a fiercely competitive match with a high chance of cards for both sides. This could be a shrewd option in the markets for want of a result, where New Zealand as the home side are big favourites to take this opening game and should do so even with a 10-point head-start to their visitors.