Dalton Papali’i. Photo: photosport
Seasoned flanker Dalton Papali'i will captain an All Blacks XV side featuring four capped players in their tour-opening match against the Barbarians in London.
Papali'i, second five-eighth David Havili and reserve backs Braydon Ennor and Kyle Preston are the members of the 23 with test experience for what shapes as a challenging match against the invitation side at GTech Stadium on Sunday morning (NZT).
Coach Jamie Joseph said he would be leaning on his more experienced players to show the way for what is an inexperienced third-tier New Zealand squad, whose matches coincides with the All Blacks' November tour.
"We're expecting three tough matches on this tour and the experience and leadership of Dalton and our other senior players will be valuable for what will be three exciting challenges," Joseph said.
"We've selected a squad full of talented players who have a great opportunity to showcase their talents in a black jersey and on an international stage."
Jamie Joseph. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Southland and former New Zealand under-20 hooker Jack Taylor will wear the black jersey at a senior level for the first time.
The team's remaining games are against England A in Bath and Uruguary in Beziers, France.
Meanwhile, Barbarians coach and former All Black Pat Lam has named a strong team dominated by South African players, including long-serving Springboks hooker Bongi Mbonambi.
Former All Blacks halfback Brad Weber is on the reserves bench.
All Blacks XV
Jacob Ratumatavuki-Kneepkens, Caleb Tangitau, Daniel Rona, David Havili, Etene Nanai-Seturo, Josh Jacomb, Xavier Roe, Devan Flanders, Dalton Papali'i (captain), Kaylum Boshier, Caleb Delany, Josh Beehre, George Dyer, Jack Taylor, Xavier Numia.
Reserves: Bradley Slater, Josh Fusitua, Siale Lauaki, Jamie Hannah, Sean Withy, Kyle Preston, Rivez Reihana, Braydon Ennor.
Barbarians
Max Mallins, Werner Kok, Matias Moroni, Benhard Janse van Rensburg, Leolin Zas, Rob du Preez, Rhodri Williams, Evan Roos, Fitz Harding, Hanro Liebenberg (captain), Ruben van Heerden, Ernest van Ryhn, Asenathi Ntlabakanye, Bongi Mbonambi, Oli Kebble.
Reserves: Andre-Hugo Venter, Alistair Vermaak, Jack Aungier, Cobus Wiese, Batho Hlekani, Brad Weber, Dan du Plessis, Rhyno Smith.
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