England in New Zealand 2014
All Blacks name squad to face England
ESPN Staff
June 1, 2014
Jerome Kaino has been recalled by the All Blacks after a stint playing in Japan © Getty Images
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New Zealand have named two uncapped players in their squad to face England in this summer's three-Test series, with Malakai Fekitoa and Patrick Tuipulotu receiving call-ups to the 31.

Fekitoa has had an outstanding season with Super Rugby's Highlanders this year, while Tuipulotu has impressed for the Blues. There is also space in the squad for Jerome Kaino, who returns to the All Blacks fold after a spell playing in Japan.

While England head coach Stuart Lancaster has seen his preparations for the tour hampered by injuries to key players and the scheduling of the Aviva Premiership final, All Blacks chief Steve Hansen is able to call on a squad with a combined total of 1,125 caps.

Dan Carter however is unavailable for selection due to his sabbatical as he prepares for next year's World Cup. Hansen is also unable to call on the injured Francis Saili, Charles Piutau and Luke Romano.

"In selecting our squad, once again we have tried to balance experience and youth with form in Super Rugby and proven performances in the All Black jersey," said Hansen. "England have been the most improved side in world rugby in the last two years. Their coach Stuart Lancaster has built depth in his side and a strong culture, so they will be a formidable opponent and one we are very excited about playing.

"Those who think England will be fielding a weak side in the first Test are completely underestimating the quality of depth in the England squad. Make no mistake, England have a very strong desire and belief that they can win this Series. Having said that, so do the All Blacks. We acknowledge that this is going to be a huge challenge but look forward to taking it head on."

New Zealand squad to face England

Forwards: Dane Coles (Hurricanes), Keven Mealamu (Blues), Wyatt Crockett (Crusaders), Charlie Faumuina (Blues), Ben Franks (Hurricanes), Owen Franks (Crusaders), Tony Woodcock (Blues), Dominic Bird (Crusaders), Brodie Retallick (Chiefs), Patrick Tuipulotu (Blues), Sam Whitelock (Crusaders), Sam Cane (Chiefs), Jerome Kaino (Blues), Richie McCaw (Crusaders, captain), Liam Messam (Chiefs), Kieran Read (Crusaders), Victor Vito (Hurricanes)

Backs: Tawera Kerr-Barlow (Chiefs), TJ Perenara (Hurricanes), Aaron Smith (Highlanders), Beauden Barrett (Hurricanes), Aaron Cruden (Chiefs), Colin Slade (Crusaders), Ryan Crotty (Crusaders), Malakai Fekitoa (Highlanders), Ma'a Nonu (Blues), Conrad Smith (Hurricanes), Israel Dagg (Crusaders), Cory Jane (Hurricanes), Julian Savea (Hurricanes), Ben Smith (Highlanders)

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