The All Blacks have decided to add a bit more brawn to their side after wing Emoni Narawa was ruled out of the Rugby World Cup with injury last week.
Crusaders flanker Ethan Blackadder has been brought into the squad amid concerns over the fitness of Sam Cane, who pulled out of the opening World Cup match against France, a historic loss for the All Blacks.
Losing 27-13 at Stade de France yesterday, the All Blacks were handed their heaviest World Cup defeat - and also their first during the pool stages.
Blackadder’s call-up was to “reinforce the loose forward stock”, coach Ian Foster said, although he was confident that openside flanker Cane’s injury was “not long-term”.