All Blacks begin life without McCaw and Carter

New Zealand have named an experienced side to play Wales in the opening match of a three Test series this Saturday. Nine players that started for the All Blacks in last year's World Cup final have retained their spot in a side that has lost Richie McCaw, Dan Carter, Ma'a Nonu and Conrad Smith. Despite that, the All Blacks matchday 23 still boasts 720 caps with loose forward Ardie Savea and midfielder Seta Tamanivalu set to make their international debuts from the bench. "Whilst the opposition might believe that we’re vulnerable because it's our first Test and we have lost some experienced players, we don’t have that mindset," coach Steve Hanson said. "We have some very excited players who have trained well during the week and are getting the opportunity to make a statement about who they are and what the All Blacks jersey means to them," he added. "We’re well aware that this is a good Welsh team and not one that we'll underestimate and we’re looking forward to the challe
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