North v South squads announced for historic rugby clash as location hangs in Covid balance

The squads for this month's North versus South rugby clash have been announced by All Blacks selectors.

All Blacks coach Ian Foster said it's a chance for the players to be part of something special.

"It's a once-in-a-generation match for them and players who have previously taken part in these matches have talked about how unique and memorable it was," Foster said in a statement on the All Blacks website.

Eligibility rules are based on what province a player debuted for.

This means, Jack Goodhue and Jordie Barrett will play for the South Island. Brother Beauden Barrett will play for the north.

And despite growing up in the south, Waikato's Anton Lienert-Brown and Damian MacKenzie will play for the north.

"I'm sure there will be parochial rivalry in spades," Foster said.

"It's a special game because it celebrates where the players made their provincial debuts and, for some, where they really took those first steps in their professional careers."

A decision on whether the August 29 game will be moved from Eden Park elsewhere will be made on Friday.

Auckland is currently operating under level 3 restrictions which limits gatherings to groups of 10 people as the super city tackles an outbreak of Covid-19.

"One thing about 2020 with Covid-19 is that you have to be nimble and agile and this week and next will be no different," Foster said.

North squad

Asafo Aumua (Wellington)

South squad

Liam Coltman (Otago)

Dane Coles, Scott Barrett, Sam Cane and Ngani Laumape were unavailable for selection due to injury.