WELLINGTON - New Zealand coach Scott Robertson named five debutants Monday in a 33-man squad skippered by Scott Barrett for three Tests against France, as Dalton Papali'i, Ethan Blackadder and David Havili missed out.
The new faces include forwards Brodie McAlister, Ollie Norris, Fabian Holland, and Du'Plessis Kirifi, along with wing Timoci Tavatavanawai.
Robertson said the line-up for Tests next month in Dunedin, Wellington and Hamilton was a balance of "continuity and opportunity".
"Around three-quarters of the players named today were part of our squad for the 2024 northern tour, which is important because we want to continue to build on the rugby we were playing at the end of last year," he said.
"We have balanced that with an exciting group of new and returning players who have performed during Super Rugby Pacific.
"For the five uncapped players this is a particularly special day," he added.
"These players have all impressed us with their talent and work ethic and have earned their opportunity to be part of this All Blacks squad."
The All Blacks also welcome back hooker Samisoni Taukei'aho and centre Quinn Tupaea, who have not featured since 2023 and 2022 respectively.