The New Zealand Allblacks team was named earlier on today. Ngani Laumape and Hurricanes team mate Jordie Barrett are the only two uncapped players in the squad.
“Firstly, on behalf of the All Blacks, the selectors would like to congratulate all players selected for the DHL New Zealand Lions Series, especially the new All Blacks.
“Obviously, it’s a very special occasion for the Barrett and Laumape families, with Jordie and Ngani being selected for the first time. Jordie has been in outstanding form, he has a skillset which is complete and has a great running and kicking game. Ngani too has been impressive throughout the Super season and has forced his way in through commanding performances,” Hansen said
“We’re really appreciative of the opportunity to play Samoa first up. The Samoan game is ideal in preparing us for the challenge that comes with the Lions.
“We see the DHL New Zealand Lions Series as a great opportunity to gauge where we’re at from both an individual and a team perspective. As always, we’ll look forward to growing our game, as we know that if we don’t keep improving, others will go past us.
“We’re excited by the uniqueness that comes with playing a Lions Series as it only comes around every 12 years.”
Allblacks Squad is as follows:
Forwards:
Hookers
Dane Coles
Codie Taylor
Nathan Harris
Props
Wyatt Crockett
Charlie Faumuina
Owen Franks
Joe Moody
Ofa Tu’ungafasi
Locks
Scott Barrett
Brodie Retallick
Luke Romano
Samuel Whitelock
Loose Forwards
Sam Cane
Jerome Kaino
Kieran Read, captain
Ardie Savea
Liam Squire
Backs:
Halfbacks
Tawera Kerr-Barlow
TJ Perenara
Aaron Smith
First five-eighths
Beauden Barrett
Aaron Cruden
Lima Sopoaga
Midfielders
Ryan Crotty
Ngani Laumape
Anton Leinert-Brown
Sonny Bill Williams
Outside backs
Jordie Barrett
Israel Dagg
Rieko Ioane
Waisake Naholo
Julian Savea
Ben Smith
5 players have been named as part of injury cover: Jack Goodhue, Matt Todd, Vaea Fifita, Akira Ioane and Coltman.
