The All Blacks’ starting side to face Ireland features just one change from the team which beat England, with Ryan Crotty replacing the injured Sonny Bill Williams while Anton Lienert-Brown comes onto the bench.
All Blacks halfback Aaron Smith will make history, playing his 82nd Test match and becoming the most capped All Blacks halfback ever, overtaking Justin Marshall.
Brodie Retallick and Samuel Whitelock will set a new record for an All Blacks locking partnership, starting in their 50th Test together.
“On behalf of the All Blacks, we want to congratulate Aaron, Brodie and Sam on their achievements,” Steve Hansen said.
Hansen said the fact it was number one versus number two in the world meant there was a real excitement amongst his squad.
“On Saturday, we’ll be playing an opponent who will want to keep the ball for long periods of time, and if they aren’t getting what they want then they’ll kick and try to pressure us,” Hansen said.
“For us, we’ll need to be strong at set piece, both on our ball and theirs, and be prepared to work hard with or without the ball. When the momentum comes our way, we’ll need to take the opportunities that will come, as the team that makes the most of their opportunities will win the game.”
All Blacks: 1 Karl Tu’inukuafe (11), 2 Codie Taylor (40), 3 Owen Franks (105), 4 Brodie Retallick (73), 5 Samuel Whitelock (107), 6 Liam Squire (22), 7 Ardie Savea (33), 8 Kieran Read (captain) (116), 9 Aaron Smith (81), 10 Beauden Barrett (71), 11 Rieko Ioane (22), 12 Ryan Crotty (43), 13 Jack Goodhue (6), 14 Ben Smith (75), 15Damian McKenzie (21).
Reserves: 16 Dane Coles (58), 17 Ofa Tu'ungafasi (24), 18 Nepo Laulala (15), 19 Scott Barrett (27), 20 Matt Todd (16), 21 TJ Perenara (53), 22 Richie Mo'unga (6), 23 Anton Lienert-Brown (31).
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