Surprising Calls In All Blacks Squad

The big calls have been made, some expected, others more surprising.

Elliot Dixon, Damian McKenzie, Nathan Harris, Charlie Ngatai, Ardie Savea, Seta Tamanivalu and maybe the biggest surprises of all - Auckland prop Ofa Tu'ungafasi and Highlanders loosie Liam Squire - are in the All Black squad to prepare for the three tests against Wales.

The All Blacks have gone with only two halfbacks - the great Aaron Smith and Tawera Kerr-Barlow, who has been battling injuries. It is a big setback for TJ Perenara, whose stocks fell at the last World Cup.

And one time golden boy Israel Dagg is back, with coach Steve Hansen say it was a "no brainer" selection. Hansen said his defence had improved, and he as always good under the high ball.The break has given him new enthusiasm.

The selection of Chiefs midfielders Ngatai, who played against Samoa, and Seta Tamanivaulu is a signpost to the future with Conrad Smith and Ma'a Nonu out of the picture. However sevens recruit Sonny Bill Williams (another Chiefs man) having decided not to return to rugby league, there is another major long term option available.

Read the full report at NZ Herald