Wales seek first victory over All Blacks

Wales coach Tandy has altered his lineup ahead of the test against New Zealand, with Wainwright’s injury creating a chance for 27‑year‑old Taine Basham. Basham, who impressed for Wales against the All Blacks in 2021, will make his first test start since 2022. The back‑row forward will need to seize the opportunity in a fiercely contested area of the squad.

The side will retain the heavyweight centre pairing of Max Llewellyn and Eddie James, while the set‑piece is expected to provide a stronger platform. Wales’ line‑out had difficulties against Japan, which featured operators such as Harry Hockings, Warner Dearns and Ben Gunter, but hooker Lake believes it was only an off day. "Go back on our performances over the last 12 to 18 months and we've been one of the top teams in the world in that area," said the Gloucester captain.

"A lot of our tries have come from driving maul or line-out set plays. We have got backs who are dangerous on launch plays. When we do secure our set-piece we are a dangerous team.

It was a setback last week but we'll put it right."

Montpellier lock Adam Beard, standing 6ft 8ins, returns as the line‑out caller and Dragons co‑captain Ben Carter will sit on the bench. Wales recorded four tries in last year’s loss to New Zealand when Tom Rogers achieved a hat‑trick and Louis Rees‑Zammit added an acrobatic finish. Rees‑Zammit, together with full‑back Blair Murray, will look to build on their strong displays against Japan, and they will be supported by in‑form Leicester wing Gabriel Hamer‑Webb. "When you get the ball and get chances, be brave with it, be fearless because we have a strong back line and players who can finish," said Rees‑Zammit.