Patrick Tuipulotu was on Tuesday named All Blacks captain for the first time against Japan in Yokohama, with Damian McKenzie recalled at flyhalf.
New Zealand take on Eddie Jones’s Japan on Saturday before heading to Europe for Tests on successive weekends against England, Ireland, France and Italy.
Lock forward Tuipulotu takes the captaincy in his 47th appearance, with regular skipper Scott Barrett not included in the matchday squad.
McKenzie returns at flyhalf after making way for Beauden Barrett in New Zealand’s previous outing, a 33-13 win over Australia in Wellington last month.
Former captain Sam Cane starts at loose forward for his 101st cap, while centre Anton Lienert-Brown is winning his 80th.
Uncapped Peter Lakai and Ruben Love both start on the bench.
Scrumhalf Cam Roigard makes his first All Blacks appearance of the year.
Pasilio Tosi, who has three previous appearances from the bench, makes his first start at prop.
“We have had a fantastic few days in Tokyo so far and the energy in the group as we kick off this tour is exciting to see,” said All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson.
“We will bring that energy when we face the Brave Blossoms on Saturday, as we know that Japan will play a fast, attacking game.”
Photo: Phil Walter/Getty Images
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Src: sarugbymag.co.za
