For two families, tonight’s All Blacks versus Samoa match will mark a special occasion.
The All Blacks will field three Barrett brothers who will play together for the first time but a set of cousins will also square off against each other.
All Black midfielder Sonny Bill Williams will go up against his cousin ‑ Chiefs outside back Tim Nanai‑Williams.
They played against each other in Apia two years ago and Nanai‑Williams says he is keen to renew the family connections.
Manu Samoa coach Alama Ieremia said getting to play the All Blacks as a precurser is like a Christmas wish coming early.
The All Blacks team : Ben Smith, Israel Dagg, Anton Lienert‑Brown, Sonny Bill Williams, Julian Savea, Beauden Barrett, Aaron Smith, Joe Moody, Codie Taylor, Owen Franks, Brodie Retallick, Sam Whitelock, Jerome Kaino, Sam Cane, Ardie Savea.
Replacements: Nathan Harris, Wyatt Crockett, Charlie Faumuina, Scott Barrett, Caea Fifita, TJ Peranara, Lima Sopoaga, Jordie Barrett.
The double header Pasifika challenge tonight at Eden Park, will see Wales taking on Tonga at 5.30pm, while the All Blacks face Samoa at 8pm.
