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'We want two play-makers' - All Blacks coach on Beauden Barrett, Damian McKenzie starting England clash

November 8, 2018

Steve Hansen said having the dynamic duo on the field at Twickenham will give their side plenty of options on attack.

All Blacks coach Steve Hansen has named a full-strength side to take on England at Twickenham Stadium in London on Sunday, opting to start two play-makers in Beauden Barrett and Damian McKenzie.

Hansen told media at a press conference today that having Barrett and McKenzie start together will give his side varying options on attack and defence.

"We want to play two play-makers," said Hansen.

"We think against the sides that play a little differently than we do, having two play-makers makes it a lot harder for them [England] to shut us down."

Hansen said having McKenzie on the field at the same time as Barrett will also relieve pressure on the starting first-five.

"And [it] also takes away the frustration of the person that is shut down when he is out there solo," he explained. "It takes that away because he has got someone else taking a bit of the heat."

Canterbury first-five Richie Mo’unga has been named on the bench for the England Test.

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