Baby Blacks v France: 40 Years On
All Blacks v France: A Rivalry Comes Full Circle
On June 28, 1986, an inexperienced All Blacks side ran out against France at Lancaster Park in Christchurch. With many of New Zealand's leading players serving suspensions following the unsanctioned Cavaliers tour of South Africa, few gave the inexperienced side much chance against the Five Nations joint champions. Only four of the starting XV had Test experience, but what followed became rugby folklore.
Led by newly appointed captain David Kirk, the Baby Blacks played with courage, ambition and belief to beat France 18-9 in front of 24,000 fans. Future All Blacks greats John Kirwan and Sean Fitzpatrick were among the side that announced a new generation, with many going on to form the backbone of the team that won the inaugural Rugby World Cup the following year.
Four decades on, the rivalry comes full circle.
The All Blacks will open their 2026 season against France in Christchurch, taking on Les Bleus at the new One New Zealand Stadium at 7.05pm on Saturday, July 4.
Ahead of another memorable chapter in one of rugby's great rivalries, relive one of the most famous victories in All Blacks history.
WATCH the full 1986 Test below
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