New Zealand: Roger Tuivasa-Sheck one of six debutants in All Blacks squad

All Blacks head coach Ian Foster has named his 36-man squad for their three-Test series against Ireland in July with Blues inside centre Roger Tuivasa-Sheck one of six newcomers included in the group.

Tuivasa-Sheck, who is in his first year with of Super Rugby after making a move from rugby league, is joined by Blues team-mate Stephen Perofeta (utility back), Folau Fakatava (scrum-half) of the Highlanders, Leicester Fainga’anuku (utility back) of the Crusaders as the uncapped backline players in the squad, while Chiefs duo Aidan Ross (prop) and Pita Gus Sowakula (number eight) are the newbies amongst the forwards.

Foster admitted that the All Blacks‘ series against Andy Farrell’s Ireland side, which kicks off at a packed Eden Park on 2 July, would be a massive challenge.

“This will be the biggest home series since the 2017 British & Irish Lions tour for the All Blacks,” he said. “There are massive expectations all round and it will be immensely competitive.”

Foster, who picked the team along with his fellow selectors Grant Fox and John Plumtree, admitted that it was a difficult task squad to choose.

“We want to congratulate the six new caps in what will be a very special day for them and their families who I’m sure will be extremely proud of their achievements,” he added. “We have a new group of exciting players who will be keen to make a difference in the All Black jersey.

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“We would also like to congratulate Sam Cane on resuming his role as All Black captain after injuries kept him sidelined