Yesterday the All Blacks squad was named to fly out for the end of year tour, with first up a clash against Japan, widely expected to see some of the younger and newer faces in the squad.
With the Rugby Championship and Bledisloe Cup successfully defended for another year, attention now turns to our northern neighbors and continuing on the performances this year but also giving the new caps a chance to show there worth on the world stage in preparation for the 2015 Rugby World Cup.
With 4 new faces announced yesterday, its clear how valuable this tour is for continuing to expand on the depth that we currently boast, as well as working on new combinations.
Canterbury's Joe Moody, Dominic Bird and Luke Whitelock have all been rewarded after strong ITM Cup seasons. Steve Hansen has confirmed that Luke has been brought into the squad to build some depth in the number eight jersey with Kieran Read of course setting up a mortgage on the position, "We are looking for someone who can support Kieran Read in that position but has utility value as well," Hansen said.
Wellington halfback Tj Perenara has again been included in the squad, searching for his first test cap and has passed a fitness test on his troublesome ankle.
Counties Manukau's Frank Halai has also been chosen after a sensational ITM Cup season. A past Sevens representative, his brutal physical presence will be another welcome inclusion.
Forwards
Dane Coles
Andrew Hore
Keven Melamu
Wyatt Crockett
Charlie Faumuina
Owen Franks
Ben Franks
Sam Cane
Richie McCaw
Kieran Read
Joe Moody
Tony Woodcock
Brodie Retallick
Jeremy Thrush
Dominic Bird
Luke Romano
Sam Whitelock
Steven Luatua
Liam Messam
Luke Whitelock
Backs
Tawera Kerr-Barlow
Aaron Smith
TJ Perenara*
Beauden Barrett
Tom Taylor
Dan Carter
Aaron Cruden
Ma'a Nonu
Ryan Crotty
Francis Saili
Israel Dagg
Frank Halai
Cory Jane
Charlie Piutau
Julian Savea
Ben Smith
What do you think of the squad assembled?
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