All Blacks Debut: Holland vs France
- Fabian Holland, a 22-year-old Dutch-born lock, is set to make his All Blacks debut against France.
- Holland's path began in Castricum, Netherlands, where he watched the All Blacks sevens team train at age 11.
- Pretty single-minded from a kid to make that call to come over and represent another country in a game he loves - and he saw the All Blacks...
Fabian Holland, a Dutch-born lock, is poised to make his All Blacks debut against France, marking a meaningful moment in his rugby career. Coach Scott Robertson calls Holland’s journey “movie stuff,” highlighting the dedication that saw him move to New Zealand to chase his All Blacks dream. News Directory 3 reports on Holland’s connection with the team, stemming from his childhood in the Netherlands, where he was inspired by the All Blacks. The inclusion of Christian Lio-Willie, another debutant, adds to the excitement as the team prepares for the France test. This match is very important for Holland. Holland’s performance will be crucial as he seeks to establish his role in the iconic team. Discover what’s next in this exciting new chapter for Holland and the All Blacks.
Dutchman Fabian holland to Play Key Role in All blacks Test Against France
Updated July 3, 2025
Fabian Holland, a 22-year-old Dutch-born lock, is set to make his All Blacks debut against France. He is one of four uncapped players named to the starting XV for Saturday’s test in Dunedin. His remarkable journey to playing a key role for New Zealand’s national rugby team has been described as “movie stuff” by coach scott Robertson.
Holland’s path began in Castricum, Netherlands, where he watched the All Blacks sevens team train at age 11. Five years later, he moved to New Zealand, driven by his ambition to play professional rugby and fulfill his ultimate dream of becoming an All Black.
Robertson highlighted Holland’s dedication. ”He’s come a long way. It’s a great story. Pretty single-minded from a kid to make that call to come over and represent another country in a game he loves - and he saw the All Blacks as the ultimate,” Robertson said Thursday.
Holland’s connection with the All Blacks started early. He met All Blacks sevens captain DJ Forbes and Akira Ioane during their training session at Castricum Rugby Club, where Holland had been playing since he was 5.
In a 2021 interview, holland reflected on his passion for rugby and New Zealand’s unique place in the sport. “I developed more and more passion about rugby and there are not a lot of countries like New Zealand when it comes to passion about rugby,” holland said. “I always dreamed of coming but it never felt real for me.When I was 16 I got the prospect to come to new Zealand and I’ve been living the dream every day. I still have to pinch myself that it’s real.”
Holland initially came to New Zealand for a six-month stint at Christchurch Boys’ High School.his career quickly progressed. He signed a developmental contract with the Highlanders in 2021, followed by a professional deal with the Super Rugby team the next year.
Holland will be joined on the field by former Otago and Highlanders teammate Christian Lio-Willie,who is also debuting for the All Blacks.
Robertson noted the significance of Holland’s debut taking place at Forsyth Barr Stadium, the Highlanders’ home ground. “I’m sure Fabian’s Highlanders supporters, and Christian’s otago fans, will be out in full force,” Robertson said.
What’s next
Holland’s performance in his debut test against France will be closely watched as he begins his All Blacks career, possibly solidifying his role within the team.