Roger Tuivasa-Sheck has been named in his first All Blacks squad. Photosport
Roger Tuivasa-Sheck has been named in his first All Blacks squad. Photosport
Six new players have been named in the All Blacks squad to face Ireland in a three match series next month.
Folau Fakatava, Stephen Perofeta, Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, Leicester Fainga'anuku, Aidan Ross and Pita Gus Sowakula are the new faces in the 36-man squad.
Veteran halfback TJ Perenara has missed outalongside fellow 2019 World Cup number nine Brad Weber with Fakatava, Aaron Smith and Finlay Christie making up the three halfback spots.
Jack Goodhue returns to the squad after missing the 2021 season through injury.
In selecting the squad All Blacks head coach and selector Ian Foster said the first up challenge of the series with the Irish starting at a sold out Eden Park on July 2 was huge.
"This will be the biggest home series since the 2017 British & Irish Lions tour for the All Blacks. There are massive expectations all round and it will be immensely competitive."
Foster along with fellow selectors Grant Fox and John Plumtree said this was an extremely difficult squad to select.
Blues Stephen Perofeta in action. Photosport
"We want to congratulate the six new caps in what will be a very special day for them and their families who I'm sure will be extremely proud of their achievements. We have a new group of exciting players who will be keen to make a difference in the All Black jersey.
