Sam Cane has been retained as captain among minimal changes for the All Blacks’ Rugby Championship campaign.
Despite the speculation he could be replaced as skipper in the wake of the historic series loss to Ireland last weekend, Cane has kept his captaincy role in the 36-man squad.
The squad features the return of Highlanders forwards Ethan de Groot and Shannon Frizell, who have been selected in the full-time squad after providing injury cover during the Ireland series.
With Angus Ta'avao, Brodie Retallick and Jack Goodhue making their way back from suspension and injury, the All Blacks selectors have called in temporary cover.
Braydon Ennor, Tyrel Lomax and the uncapped Josh Dickson will join the squad for the South African leg of the tournament.
All Blacks coach, Ian Foster, after a week of media silence from the All Blacks and New Zealand Rugby, was unflinching in continuing as All Blacks head coach despite widespread calls for him to be sacked from fans and pundits.
The All Blacks will play the Springboks on August 7th.
[Source: Stuff.co.nz]
