Barrett in All Black tour squad

All Black coach Steve Hansen has included Beauden Barrett in his 28-man squad for the two-match tour of Argentina and South Africa.

With first-choice flyhalf Dan Carter still on the comeback trail, Hansen has opted to include Aaron Cruden and the young Hurricanes star Barrett as back-up pivots.

Hansen’s decision to include three flyhalves comes at the expense of Crusaders loosehead prop Wyatt Crockett, who drops out of the squad.

As expected, the squad is devoid of any surprise selections.

The All Blacks will look to secure the Rugby Championship title when they play the Pumas in La Plata next weekend before they head to the Republic to battle the Boks in Soweto a week later.      

All Black tour squad:

Forwards: Andrew Hore, Keven Mealamu, Charlie Faumuina, Ben Franks, Owen Franks, Tony Woodcock, Brodie Retallick, Luke Romano, Sam Whitelock, Sam Cane, Richie McCaw, Liam Messam, Kieran Read, Adam Thomson, Victor Vito.

Backs: Aaron Smith, Piri Weepu, Beauden Barrett, Daniel Carter, Aaron Cruden, Tamati Ellison, Ma'a Nonu, Conrad Smith, Israel Dagg, Hosea Gear, Cory Jane, Ben Smith, Julian Savea.