All Blacks: Cane on brink of first cap

Sam Cane made his Super Rugby debut as an 18-year-old in 2010, he is set to make test debut just two years later. Photo / Getty Images

From Super Rugby newcomer at the high-flying Chiefs to being on the brink of his first test cap, Sam Cane's year just keeps getting better.

The specialist openside flanker is on the reserves bench for the All Blacks in the second test against Ireland in Christchurch on Saturday night thanks in part to Victor Vito's knee injury.

Highlanders loose forward Adam Thomson slots into Vito's blindside role, with Cane coming into the mix for the first time. They are the only changes to the All Blacks team.

Cane today told of his excitement at merely warming up with the team at Eden Park ahead of last Saturday's comfortable first test victory by the All Blacks. Now he's about to get his first taste of test rugby.

"We were out there warming up with the boys and that got the adrenaline pumping," he said of his experience in Auckland.

"You've just got to adapt and take it in your stride because if you don't you won't last very long," he said of his attitude towards his sudden elevation. "It's been a pretty surreal year I guess but I'm loving it."

Cane, who made his Super Rugby debut as an 18-year-old in 2010, and Tanerau Latimer have swapped the openside duties at the table-topping Chiefs this season but Steve Hansen and Co have seen enough to think he has what it takes to be the next Richie McCaw.

Rather than being daunted by the prospect, Cane sees it as a challenge, and he is thankful that the All Blacks captain gives advice freely.

"I've learned subtle little things," he said. "Running lines and defensive lines, just small adjustments, and I'm just trying to pick up on those things all the time - listening to what he's talking about or eavesdropping on certain conversations."

Hansen said improvements were required despite the comfortable nature of the first test victory and 42-10 scoreline. Thomson, and, potentially, Cane will have important parts to play at the breakdown, one area of concern for the coaches.

"I didn't think we would play as well as we did. We've set the standard now and we have to kick forward and improve on it," Hansen said.

Ireland name their side this afternoon.

All Blacks team: Israel Dagg, Zac Guildford, Conrad Smith, Sonny Bill Williams, Julian Savea, Dan Carter, Aaron Smith, Kieran Read, Richie McCaw (c), Adam Thomson, Sam Whitelock, Brodie Retallick, Owen Franks, Andrew Hore, Tony Woodcock. Reserves: Hika Elliot, Ben Franks, Sam Cane, Ali Williams, Piri Weepu, Aaron Cruden, Ben Smith.