As it happened: All Blacks v Samoa

The All Blacks celebrate Beauden Barrett's try against Samoa. Photo / Brett Phibbs

Join us here for live coverage of tonight's rugby international between the All Blacks and Samoa at Eden Park.

Timeline

The All Blacks' first international outing of the year of course doubles up as their final tune-up before the Test series against the British and Irish Lions gets underway next Saturday.

The All Blacks are settled. Steve Hansen has named a strong side as he looks to generate some impetus heading into the Lions series, although skipper Kieran Read, still recovering from a broken thumb, is not risked.

Ben Smith is at fullback and captains the All Blacks for the first time on the occasion of his 61st cap. Elsewhere, Israel Dagg and Julian Savea start on the wings, with Sonny Bill Williams and Anton Lienert-Brown combining in the centres.

Aaron Smith renews his halfback partnership with Beauden Barrett, who is joined in the match-day 23 by siblings Scott and Jordie.

Match stats

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