The All Blacks have named their 51-strong squad for this year's end of year tour but it hasn't come without issues with multiple injuries forcing coach Steve Hansen to make changes.
Hansen revealed the squad today in Christchurch before confirming who had been overlooked due to injuries and other issues.
"Jordan Taufua whose arm would not have available until halfway through the tour," Hansen said.
"So we thought that was too big a risk to select him."
Taufua broke his arm playing for the Crusaders in their Super Rugby semi-final against the Sharks in July.
But as Hansen revealed, he isn't the only loose forward missing the tour.
"Sam Cane, obviously with his neck injury.
"Shannon Frizell has picked up a shoulder injury while playing for the All Blacks so he needs some rest time - he doesn't need an operation but wasn't considered."
Hansen also added their was some tweaking in the midfield too.
"Jack Goodhue is recovering from glandular fever so he won't be coming with us to the Japanese leg of the tour - Ngani Laumape will take his place there."
The All Blacks begin their tour in Yokohama when they play the Wallabies on Saturday October 27.
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