The All Blacks selectors have named injured hooker Anton Oliver in their squad to face the Lions in the three-test series starting on June 25.
The former New Zealand captain has been sidelined since injuring his calf late in the Super 12 competition five weeks ago, but coach Graham Henry
said Oliver's progress made him a "good" chance to play in the first test at Christchurch on June 25.
Auckland's Derren Witcombe will train with the squad as cover for Oliver.
Notable omissions were Waikato forwards Jone Gibbes and Marty Holah, who were outstanding in the New Maori team's 19-13 defeat of the Lions last night. Gibbes, who has a foot injury, will also train with the squad.
Joe Rokocoko misses out in favour of Sitiveni Sivivatu. Rokocoko goes on the junior All Blacks tour to Australia.
The squad assembles in Auckland on Tuesday for a three-day camp.
Backs:
Mils Muliaina
Leon MacDonald
Rico Gear
Doug Howlett
Sitiveni Sivivatu
Tana Umaga (Captain)
Aaron Mauger
Conrad Smith
Ma'a Nonu
Dan Carter
Byron Kelleher
Justin Marshall
Forwards:
Rodney So'oialo
Mose Tuiali'i
Richie McCaw
Jerry Collins
Sione Lauaki
Chris Jack
Ali Williams
James Ryan
Carl Hayman
Greg Somerville
Campbell Johnstone
Tony Woodcock
Keven Mealamu
Anton Oliver
Also training with the squad this week:
Derren Whitcombe, Jono Gibbes
- NZPA, HERALD ONLINE STAFF
