New Zealand have named their touring squad for November which includes the sold out game against Ireland on November 24th. Five uncapped players have been picked in a 36-man squad for the All Blacks' tour of Japan and Europe. They include the Crusaders' trio of prop Joe Moody, lock Dominic Bird and loose forward Luke Whitelock, who joins 48-cap brother Sam in the touring party. Blues winger Frank Halai and Hurricanes scrum half TJ Perenara are also included.
Skipper Richie McCaw, who was a late withdrawal from the Bledisloe Cup third Test victory over Australia on Saturday night because of a tight calf, is back to lead the side. Two vice-captains have been named in number eight Kieran Read and fly half Dan Carter, who is returning from a shoulder injury suffered against South Africa in mid-September. The All Blacks selectors also announced that an "apprentice" player, Hurricanes and Wellington loose forward Ardie Savea, would accompany the squad. The 20-year-old is the younger brother of All Blacks winger Julian Savea.
Coach Steve Hansen says the move is a continuation of the scheme started this year with up-and-coming hookers being brought in to get a taste of the All Blacks environment.
Squad:
Forwards - Dane Coles, Andrew Hore, Keven Mealamu, Wyatt Crockett, Charlie Faumuina, Ben Franks, Owen Franks, Joe Moody, Tony Woodcock, Dominic Bird, Brodie Retallick, Luke Romano, Jeremy Thrush, Sam Whitelock, Sam Cane, Steven Luatua, Richie McCaw (C), Liam Messam, Kieran Read (VC), Luke Whitelock.
Backs - Tawera Kerr-Barlow, TJ Perenara, Aaron Smith, Beauden Barrett, Dan Carter (VC), Aaron Cruden, Tom Taylor, Ryan Crotty, Ma'a Nonu, Francis Saili, Israel Dagg, Frank Halai, Cory Jane, Charles Piutau, Julian Savea, Ben Smith.
