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ESPN staff
Crusaders flyer Sevu Reece is among six uncapped players named in the All Blacks’ squad for the Rugby Championship, but there is no place for returned veteran Ma’a Nonu.
Reece is joined in a 39-man squad for a shortened Rugby Championship alongside Asafo Aumua, Josh Ioane, Atu Moli, Luke Jacobson and Braydon Ennor.
It was thought Nonu could earn a late call-up after Ryan Crotty was ruled out of the tournament with a hand injury, alongside Crusaders teammate Scott Barrett.
All Blacks coach Steve Hansen revealed back-rower Liam Squire was omitted due to fitness reasons, the Highlanders forward calling Hansen to let him know he wasn’t up to Test rugby right now.
Forwards: Asafo Aumua, Sam Cane, Dane Coles, Liam Coltman, Vaea Fifita, Owen Franks, Shannon Frizell, Jack Goodhue, Jackson Hemopo, Luke Jacobson, Nepo Laulala, Atu Moli, Joe Moody, Dalton Papali’i, Kieran Read (c), Brodie Retallick, Ardie Savea, Angus Ta’avao, Codie Taylor, Matt Todd, Karl Tu’inukuafe, Patrick Tuipulotu, Ofa Tu’ungafasi, Sam Whitelock.
Backs: Beauden Barrett, Jordie Barrett, George Bridge, Braydon Ennor, Josh Ioane, Rieko Ioane, Ngani Laumape, Anton Lienert-Brown, Richie Mo’unga, TJ Perenara, Sevu Reece, Aaron Smith, Ben Smith, Brad Weber, Sonny Bill Williams.