Du'Plessis Kirifi's decision to turn done an offer from Japan has been vindicated.
The Hurricanes flanker is one of five new caps in the All Blacks squad to face France.
He's also one of only five loose forwards in the 33 names read out today - with coach Scott Robertson opting to maximise game time of those selected.
Newstalk ZB rugby commentator Elliott Smith explains further.
LISTEN ABOVE
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.