
Steve Hansen has stuck to the pattern of his most recent selections and kept two times World Player of the Year, Beauden Barrett at Full Back for their opening World Cup match against South Africa this Saturday.
Hansen does welcome back Ryan Crotty to the starting XV after his long term injury absence. He will partner his Crusader’s team mate Richie Mo’unga, who starts in Barrett’s usual fly-half shirt.
Anton Lienert-Brown gets the nod at outside centre in front of Jack Goodhue.
Scott Barrett returns to the second row following his suspension but there are only places on the bench for Sonny Bill Williams, Ben Smith and the impressive TJ Perenara.
Full Team