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The returns of John Afoa, Corey Flynn, Liam Messam and Ma’a Nonu and the axing of Aled de Malmanche, Neemia Tialata, Adam Thomson and Zac Guildford are features of the All Blacks squad named for the Tri-Nations rugby series against Australia and South Africa.
The forwards feature the return of New Zealand Maori captain Liam Messam and Canterbury hooker Corey Flynn, subject to a medical and fitness test, who returns to the front row alongside returning Auckland prop John Afoa.
Centre Ma’a Nonu returns to the backs following his recovery from a posterior cruciate ligament injury while lock Sam Whitelock and winger Rene Ranger, who have provided injury cover for the All Blacks during recent Test series against Wales and Ireland, have now made the official squad.
All Blacks coach Graham Henry said players not considered for selection due to injury include: Mike Delany (shoulder), Stephen Donald (shoulder), Jason Eaton (knee), Andrew Hore (shoulder), Sitiveni Sivivatu (shoulder), Isaia Toeava (hip) and Ali Williams (Achilles).
The All Blacks first Tri-Nations Test is against South Africa at Eden Park on July 10.
Squad
Forwards: John Afoa, Anthony Boric, Tom Donnelly, Corey Flynn, Ben Franks, Owen Franks, Jerome Kaino, Richie McCaw (capt), Keven Mealamu, Liam Messam, Kieran Read, Brad Thorn, Victor Vito, Samuel Whitelock, Tony Woodcock.
Backs: Daniel Carter, Jimmy Cowan, Aaron Cruden, Israel Dagg, Cory Jane, Richard Kahui, Mils Muliaina, Ma’a Nonu, Rene Ranger, Josevata Rokocoko, Conrad Smith, Benson Stanley, Piri Weepu.
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