Brodie Retallick will play his first test for the All Blacks since the 2019 World Cup bronze medal match, after being named for this weekend's clash with Fiji at Forsyth Barr Stadium.
Retallick is one 15 changes to Ian Foster's 23 for the first of two tests with Fiji, with halfback Aaron Smith named as captain for the first time in his 97 tests.
Beauden Barrett will start at first-five, with Richie Mo'unga rested, while David Havili will start outside Barrett at second five.
Prop Ethan de Groot will make his test debut from the bench, while there is a first All Blacks start for Crusaders prop George Bower.
Retallick returns to the black jersey for the first time in two years after taking a sabbatical at the conclusion of New Zealand's World Cup campaign in Japan.
The 2014 World Rugby Player of the Year will have the chance to add to his 81 tests, while for Smith it will be quite the moment running out in front of the Highlanders faithful in Dunedin in his 98th appearance in the black jersey
Coach Ian Foster says it's a deserving accolade for arguably New Zealand's greatest ever No.9.
"Aaron is a special player with real mana and a natural leader and his preparation is second to none," says Foster.
"I’m sure he, his wife Teagan and his wider whānau will be proud of what he has achieved.
"We also want to congratulate Ethan on his selection. It’ll be a great occasion for him and his family and friends and we look forward to seeing him play."
All Blacks: 1-George Bower, 2-Codie Taylor, 3-Nepo Laulala, 4-Patrick Tuipulotu, 5-Brodie Retallick, 6-Shannon Frizell, 7-Ethan Blackadder, 8-Hoskins Sotutu, 9-Aaron Smith (c), 10-Beauden Barrett, 11-George Bridge, 12-David Havili, 13-Rieko Ioane, 14-Sevu Reece, 15-Jordie Barrett
Reserves: 16-Dane Coles, 17-Ethan de Groot, 18-Tyrel Lomax, 19-Sam Whitelock, 20-Luke Jacobson, 21-Finlay Christie, 22-Damian McKenzie, 23-Will Jordan
Join Newshub for live updates of the first test between the All Blacks and Fiji from 7pm Saturday
