All Blacks coach Steve Hansen has named four new players in his 37-man squad for the end-of-year tour. Here's all you need to know about the fresh faces in the All Blacks.
Asafo Aumua
A superstar in the making - as simple as that. He is being fast tracked because he is so dynamic, and there are a lot of doubts over the other hookers. The once-exceptional Dane Coles is struggling since a head knock, Codie Taylor is standard issue by the highest test standards while Nathan Harris is a mystery man who has held his place by default. Aumua's strength is x-factor plays, which is what the position demands. The 20-year-old's forte is brilliant ball running and try scoring.
The 108kg flying barrel who was born in Lower Hutt was part of the World Cup winning under-20 side this year, scoring a hat trick in the final against England. He shoved off half a dozen defenders for one of those. He has been a national championship sensation, although he is yet to play at Super Rugby level. The fact that Aumua was not listed as an apprentice suggests he is well in the frame to be groomed into the World Cup side for 2019.
Jack Goodhue
The Whangarei-born midfield back has been part of the Crusaders set up for two seasons. He was schooled at Mt Albert Grammar where he was head boy. (His twin brother Josh who plays lock for Northland and the Blues was the first XV captain).
The 100kg back made his Super rugby debut this season, and was one of the Crusaders to stand out in the loss to the British and Irish Lions with some second half breaks. The 22-year-old was among five back-up players for the 33-man All Black squad named for the Lions series.
