All Blacks shift Kaino to second-row for Ireland

4:30 PM GMT

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  Tom HamiltonRugby Editor

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  • Joined ESPN in 2011
  • Grew up in Bath but has New Zealand roots
  • Covered England's tour of New Zealand in 2014 and Australia in 2016
  • Was ESPN's man on the ground for the 2013 British & Irish Lions series and Rugby World Cup 2015

Jerome Kaino has been shifted to the All Blacks second-row for their Test against Ireland in Chicago on Saturday.

Kaino, who is usually at blindside, has moved forward to offer experience in a second-row that is without Sam Whitelock, Luke Romano and Brodie Retallick. He links up with Patrick Tuipulotu in the locks while Scott Barrett is in line to make his debut from the bench.

Kieran Read captains the side from No.8 with Aaron Smith reinstated at scrum-half where he partners Beauden Barrett at half-back. On the wing, Julian Savea will win his 50th cap at Soldier Field.

"Firstly, we want to congratulate Scott on being selected in the matchday 23 for the first time," All Blacks coach Steve Hansen said. "It will be special day for him and the entire Barrett family, including his two brothers who are touring with him.

"Also, we want to congratulate Julian on reaching 50 Tests. That is a significant achievement and again he and his family can be rightly proud of everything he has achieved in the black jersey."

Hansen continued: "Returning to Chicago for only the second time in our history has, once again, been a great experience. The team have embraced the sporting atmosphere and the culture of the city and we really appreciate the way we've been looked after by the people of Chicago.

"The challenge we face from Ireland is a massive one. They're a well-coached team with quality players, they play to their strengths and they're very good at identifying and attacking the weaknesses of the opposition they face.

"We anticipate them using some special plays that we haven't seen before, as well as bringing a very physical, 'in-your-face' attitude and a structured kicking game. Knowing all this has created a good edge in our group."

New Zealand:

Ben Smith, Waiseke Naholo, George Moala, Ryan Crotty, Julian Savea, Beauden Barrett, Aaron Smith; Joe Moody, Dane Coles, Owen Franks, Patrick Tuipulotu, Jerome Kaino, Liam Squire, Sam Cane, Kieran Read (captain)

Replacements: Codie Taylor, Ofa Tu'ungafasi, Charlie Faumuina, Scott Barrett, Ardie Savea, TJ Perenara, Aaron Cruden, Malakai Fekitoa

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All Blacks shift Kaino to second-row for Ireland