Dave Rennie has used his pre-match media briefing in Johannesburg to defend his selection decisions for Saturday's Test opener against the Springboks at Ellis Park, with Fabian Holland's return from a shoulder dislocation the most significant change from the XV that beat Ireland 40-21 at Eden Park last month.
Holland replaces Patrick Tuipulotu at lock — the only change Rennie has made to that starting XV. The Highlanders lock missed the entire Super Rugby Pacific season with the injury but played in the tour wins over the Stormers and Bulls, and Rennie is satisfied he is match-ready.
"He's got a big engine as well — to get through as much footy as he did at altitude last week was great, so we believe he's ready to go. He's a big man who will have an impact on the game," Rennie said.
The selection of Sam Darry among the replacements was also flagged by Rennie, who described him as "a big man with a really good skill set and a massive engine" and signalled that the touring squad's depth will be tested across the series.
Three starters — Cam Roigard, Will Jordan and captain Ardie Savea — have not featured in any of the tour's franchise matches. Roigard and Jordan are returning from injury, while Savea only rejoined the squad last week after being rested following the Nations Championship. Rennie expressed no concerns about their readiness. "They're both very good players and important to us. Both had big impact in the Nations Cup series. They're reasonably fresh and keen to rip in," he said of Roigard and Jordan.
On Savea: "He's come back full of beans. He's trained really hard and connected quickly, so he's been in for almost a week and a half. He's ready to go."
Full-back Damian McKenzie, who also had a fitness concern, trained fully on Tuesday and is confirmed to start.
The All Blacks take the field with a combined 684 caps in the starting XV against South Africa's 850, with Josh Moorby — who has played twice on tour — their least experienced starter.