New Zealand name squad for end of the year tour

New Zealand head coach Steve Hansen has named a 32-man squad for the third and final Bledisloe Cup clash against Australia in Japan and the European tour to follow.

Blues flanker Dalton Papali'i is the only uncapped player in the squad and takes the place of Sam Cane, who is out with a neck injury while Shannon Frizell and Jordan Taufua are also unavailable.

The 21-year-old gets his chance after an impressive Super Rugby season followed by a consistent performance in the Mitre10 Cup.

"He has played outstanding rugby this year and deserves his opportunity," said Hansen.

Hooker Dane Coles, lock Brodie Retallick, loose forward Liam Squire and prop Joe Moody all make a comeback to the squad that will face Australia in Yokohama on 27th October followed by clashes against England, Ireland and Italy in November.

Hansen has also named an additional 19-member squad that will take on host Japan in Tokyo on 3rd November which he believes will help the group acclimatise to the conditions ahead of the World Cup next year while few members will head to Europe early to prepare for the game against England.

"Having the extra group come to Japan will allow us to send the bulk of our main squad to London early to acclimatise," he said.

"We'll also be using the Japanese leg of our Tour to road test a few things ahead of next year's Rugby World Cup, as we will be using the same hotels and training facilities while we are there".

Squad to play Australia, England, Ireland and Italy

Forwards

Dane Coles, Nathan Harris, Codie Taylor, Owen Franks, Nepo Laulala, Joe Moody, Karl Tu'inukuafe, Ofa Tuungafasi, Scott Barrett, Brodie Retallick, Patrick Tuipulotu, Sam Whitelock, Vaea Fifita, Dalton Papalii, Kieran Read (capt), Ardie Savea, Liam Squire, Matt Todd.

Backs

TJ Perenara, Aaron Smith, Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi, Beauden Barrett, Damian McKenzie, Richie Mo'unga, Ryan Crotty, Jack Goodhue, Anton Lienert-Brown, Sonny Bill Williams, Jordie Barrett, Rieko Ioane, Waisake Naholo, Ben Smith.

Additional 19-member squad:

Forwards

Asafo Aumua, Liam Coltman, Tyrel Lomax, Reuben O'Neill, Tim Perry, Angus Ta'avao, Luke Romano, Jackson Hemopo, Gareth Evans, Dillon Hunt, Luke Whitelock.

Backs

Mitchell Drummond, Bryn Hall, Brett Cameron, Ngani Laumape, Matt Proctor, George Bridge, David Havili, Nehe Milner-Skudder.