Ardie Savea and Seta Tamanivalu are in line for their New Zealand debuts after being named in the matchday squad to face Wales.

The world champions will play the opening Test of the Steinlager Series against Wales at Eden Park in Auckland on Saturday.

Head coach Steve Hansen has named a squad boasting 720 caps but loose forward Savea and midfielder Tamanivalu are the new blood for the All Blacks from the bench.

Hansen said: “Whilst the opposition might believe that we’re vulnerable because it’s our first Test and we have lost some experienced players, we don’t have that mindset.

“We have some very excited players who have trained well during the week and are getting the opportunity to make a statement about who they are and what the All Blacks jersey means to them.

“We’re well aware that this is a good Welsh team and not one that we’ll underestimate and we’re looking forward to the challenge that comes with playing Test match football, which involves high-pressure moments and huge physicality.

“On a personal note, we would also like to congratulate (Wales’) Alun Wyn Jones who looks set to play his 100th Test this weekend. It’s a fantastic achievement.”

Aaron Cruden, 27, who has already accumulated more than 30 caps, has been given the chance to show he can be Dan Carter’s permanent replacement, with Beauden Barrett again preferred off the bench, where he can cover fullback and No.10.

Cruden admitted he was feeling a little more nervous than usual as he prepared for his first match in the black jersey in 19 months.

“It’s been a long time since my last test to this one coming up this weekend, so obviously extremely excited, a few extra nerves around as well – which I think is only natural.

“When I found out earlier in the week that I’d be starting I couldn’t help but have a smile on my face, and now it’s just about getting out there and nailing my role and enjoying the occasion.”

Malakai Fekitoa and Ryan Crotty have been given their first opportunity to cement their midfield partnership, following the international retirements of Conrad Smith and Ma’a Nonu. The duo will start together for the first time.

 

 New Zealand team to face Wales: Ben Smith, Waisake Naholo, Malakai Fekitoa, Ryan Crotty, Julian Savea, Aaron Cruden, Aaron Smith; Kieran Read (captain), Sam Cane, Jerome Kaino, Brodie Retallick, Luke Romano; Owen Franks, Dane Coles, Joe Moody.

Replacements: Nathan Harris, Wyatt Crockett, Charlie Faumuina, Patrick Tuipulotu, Ardie Savea, TJ Perenara, Beauden Barrett, Seta Tamanivalu.