New Zealand duo Ardie Savea and Seta Tamanivalu could make their international debuts during Saturday's match against Wales at Eden Park in Auckland.
The world champions will welcome Warren Gatland's side for the first Test of Wales's summer tour this weekend, with the uncapped duo being included in the matchday squad.
Flanker Savea and centre Tamanivalu represent new blood in a New Zealand squad that lost a host of experienced players after the last World Cup, but head coach Steve Hansen is confident that they can step up to the plate.
"Whilst the opposition might believe that we're vulnerable because it's our first Test and we have lost some experienced players, we don't have that mindset," Hansen told reporters.
"We have some very excited players who have trained well during the week and are getting the opportunity to make a statement about who they are and what the All Blacks jersey means to them.
"We're well aware that this is a good Welsh team and not one that we'll underestimate and we're looking forward to the challenge that comes with playing Test match football, which involves high-pressure moments and huge physicality. On a personal note, we would also like to congratulate [Wales's] Alun Wyn Jones who looks set to play his 100th Test this weekend. It's a fantastic achievement."
In addition to Jones winning his 100th cap for Wales, the tourists also welcome captain Sam Warburton back from injury for the opening Test.
Barney Corkhill
