All Blacks: I'm last man standing - Stanley

Benson Stanley says he's thankful selectors have put their faith in him - 'but they had to put their faith in someone'. Photo / Brett Phibbs

New All Black midfielder Benson Stanley brought his wry sense of humour to his national selection.

The 25-year-old had been out to lunch with his wife and dismissed talk he would make the grade. He only turned on the car radio announcement at his wife's insistence.

Stanley caught the tail-end broadcast of the Maori squad and was oblivious about his All Black status until the text messages started flying in.

"It's almost like I am the last man standing," he said, referring to the injuries which have wreaked havoc in the All Black midfield. "So I am thankful they have put faith in me but I guess they had to put their faith in someone."

"I'm stoked, this is special for the extended family," said the nephew of former All Black centre Joe Stanley.

"I was not worried about any All Black selection and I did not think I would be in the squad in my wildest dreams. Just about every man and his dog has fallen over so it has been a war of attrition."

Stanley was one of four newcomers in the squad alongside Manawatu first five-eighths Aaron Cruden, Hawkes Bay fullback Israel Dagg and Wellington loose forward Victor Vito.

Stanley should be the first Auckland representative to debut in test rugby since Jerome Kaino was promoted in 2006 against Ireland.

Taniela Moa and Paul Williams have been called into squads on standby since but not played.

His selection came after a strong and consistent season for the Blues while other midfield contenders, Ma'a Nonu, Isaia Toeava, Luke McAlister, Tamati Ellison and Daniel Bowden were injured, had played little or were going overseas.

Stanley could not make any predictions about the All Black plans for their June internationals as he had scarcely seen the squad.

"I'll just put my head down, learn and work on what these guys will be trying to achieve," Stanley said.

It would be daunting to play between Daniel Carter and Conrad Smith but a great honour to be involved in a team with a huge history.

Stanley has had a slow burn to the top in rugby, choosing to complete a university degree before he took a more intensive swipe at rugby, where he has captained Auckland in the national championship.

"I am stoked," he said.

"Just to make Auckland I was rapt, it has been a great ride."

- NZPA