All Blacks coach Steve Hansen has named an experienced team to tackle Argentina as New Zealand look to tie up the Rugby Championship in La Plata on Sunday morning.
There are just two changes to the run-on team which beat South Africa 29-15 in a bruising encounter in Auckland two weeks ago.
One of the changes is injury-enforced, with Aaron Cruden in for the injured Daniel Carter at first five-eighth, while Andrew Hore comes in as the starting hooker in his 80th Test.
All Blacks coach Steve Hansen says the swap doesn’t reflect any dissatisfaction with Dane Coles’ performance in the No.2 jersey to date.
“We are very happy with where Dane is at and with his performances of late,” Hansen said.
“But like a lot of the young players, we are also mindful of managing their game time as part of their development so have brought in Andrew to start this week.”
Hansen says the game is hugely significant if New Zealand want to retain their Rugby Championship title.
“Playing Argentina at home is never an easy assignment so we have worked hard on, firstly, our recovery on arrival and, secondly, our preparation throughout the week,” he said.
“We know that we will have to be physically on top of our game and strategically smart.”
There is just the one change on the bench, with Jeremy Thrush coming in as lock cover, while Kieran Read will again captain the team in the absence of the injured Richie McCaw.
The All Blacks have played Argentina 17 times since 1985, winning 16 times and drawing once.
New Zealand: Israel Dagg, Ben Smith, Conrad Smith, Ma’a Nonu, Julian Savea, Aaron Cruden, Aaron Smith, Kieran Read (captain), Sam Cane, Liam Messam, Sam Whitelock, Brodie Retallick, Owen Franks, Andrew Hore, Tony Woodcock. Reserves: Keven Mealamu, Wyatt Crockett, Charlie Faumuina, Jeremy Thrush, Steven Luatua, Tawera Kerr-Barlow, Beauden Barrett, Charles Piutau.