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Reuters
Reuters
Sport

Barrett recalled to All Blacks as Sopoaga awaits first baby

Rugby Union - Championship - New Zealand All Blacks vs Argentina Pumas - New Plymouth, New Zealand - September 9, 2017 - New Zealand's Beauden Barrett scores a try in the second half. REUTERS/Nigel Marple

WELLINGTON (Reuters) - Flyhalf Beauden Barrett has been called back into the All Blacks squad for the Rugby Championship clash with Argentina as Lima Sopoaga stays home to await the birth of his first child, the team said on Friday.

The All Blacks leave for Argentina later on Friday ahead of the Sept. 30 clash in Buenos Aires.

Barrett was one of the six players left out of the 28-man squad for the clash against the Pumas who are expected to join the side in South Africa for their final clash in Cape Town the following week.

Sopoaga, who has moved into the backup spot behind Barrett following Aaron Cruden's move to France, was in line to start the test against the Pumas, with utility back Damian McKenzie the only other candidate for the pivotal role.

The All Blacks lead the Rugby Championship on 19 points after four successive victories and can clinch the title with a game to spare with victory against the Pumas.

(Reporting by Greg Stutchbury; Editing by Ian Ransom)

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