Mehrtens named in All Blacks squad

Andrew Mehrtens’ renaissance continued when he was named in the 26-man New Zealand squad to face England in two Tests.

The Crusaders flyhalf only got a call up to the trial on the strength of his performance in the Super 12 final and again proved his worth by replacing Carlos Spencer in the Probables pivot position to help steer them to a narrow 29-27 win over the Possibles.

Xavier Rush, who has not played for the All Blacks since 1998, also forced his way back in after an impressive trial performance and Chiefs skipper Jono Gibbes has been rewarded for his outstanding season, as has Highlanders fullback Nick Evans.

Mose Tuiali’I and Sam Tuitupou were the other newcomers.

The most noticeable omission was that of the former skipper Reuben Thorne, who last week saw Tana Umaga take over as All Blacks captain, and has now lost out to Wellington’s Jerry Collins in the battle for the number six shirt.

Coach Graham Henry said: “We are very confident we have selected a very good rugby side.

“Our expectations are very high and we expect them to help each other and produce a very high standard of rugby.”

Richie McCaw, who was rested for the trial, was named the new vice-captain and Henry explained: “I think it is fair to say that we see him as a future leader of the All Blacks.

"It is also very good that he has a lot of experienced players around him in that forward pack that are going to help him in his development and support him.

“We see that as a step in the right direction for the long-term future.”

Squad: Daniel Carter, Jerry Collins, Nick Evans, Jono Gibbes, Carl Hayman, Marty Holah, Andrew Hore, Doug Howlett, Chris Jack, Byron Kelleher, Simon Maling, Richard McCaw (vice captain), Justin Marshall, Keven Mealamu, Kees Meeuws, Andrew Mehrtens, Mils Muliaina, Keith Robinson, Joe Rokocoko, Xavier Rush, Greg Somerville, Carlos Spencer, Mose Tuiali’i, Sam Tuitupou, Tana Umaga (captain), Tony Woodcock.