Barrett trio make All Blacks squad

Scott and Jordie Barrett will join older brother Beauden in the All Blacks’ squad for their end-of-year tour.

With Sam Whitelock sustaining a leg injury and Brodie Retallick subjected to the concussion protocols, the 22-year-old Scott has been selected as second-row cover, and could make his debut in the Test against Ireland in Chicago.

Utility back Jordie, who played for New Zealand at the U20 Championship earlier this year, will travel with the squad as an apprentice.

Along with the Barretts, Rieko Ioane (utility back) and Liam Coltman (hooker) are the only other uncapped players.

Scrumhalf Aaron Smith is also back following a two-Test absence, while loose forward Steven Luatua has been recalled for the first time since 2014. 

Coach Steve Hansen says the inclusion of the two teenage protégés (Jordie and Ioane) is to give them an understanding of what it’s like to tour with the All Blacks.

Nathan Harris, James Parsons, Sonny Bill Williams, Charlie Ngatai and Nehe Milner-Skudder were not considered for selection because of injury.

All Blacks squad:

Forwards – Dane Coles, Codie Taylor, Liam Coltman, Wyatt Crockett, Charlie Faumuina, Owen Franks, Joe Moody, Ofa Tu'ungafasi, Brodie Retallick, Luke Romano, Patrick Tuipulotu, Samuel Whitelock, Sam Cane, Elliot Dixon, Jerome Kaino, Steven Luatua, Kieran Read (c), Ardie Savea, Liam Squire, Matt Todd.

Backs – Tawera Kerr-Barlow, TJ Perenara, Aaron Smith, Beauden Barrett , Aaron Cruden, Lima Sopoaga, Ryan Crotty, Malakai Fekitoa, Anton Leinert-Brown, George Moala, Israel Dagg, Rieko Ioane, Damian McKenzie, Waisake Naholo, Julian Savea, Ben Smith. 

Photo: Kai Schwoerer/Getty Images

Post by

stagingsar