Rapid rise to AB ranks for Frizell

FIVE of the Highlanders picked in yesterday’s All Black squad were predictable, but one would have surprised most pundits.

Shannon Frizell was one of three newcomers named in the 33man squad for the June test series against France.

He joined Highlanders Ben Smith, Liam Squire, Luke Whitelock, Aaron Smith and Waisake Naholo, while hooker Liam Coltman will act as paternity cover for Nathan Harris.

A strong ball carrier, Frizell announced himself with a standout performance against the Blues last month.

On that occasion, the Tonganborn flanker scored three tries, set up a fourth and proved a handful both in the open and in

contact.

However, with just nine caps to his name and in his first season of Super Rugby, it is a quick elevation for the 24yearold.

Chiefs halfback Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi and Crusaders loose forward Jordan Taufua were the other new caps selected in the squad.

Crusaders trio Richie Mo’unga, Jack Goodhue and

Tim Perry were also selected.

All three played for the All Blacks against a French Selection XV last year, although are yet to play a test match.

Coach Steve Hansen congratulated the newcomers and also made mention of those who missed the cut.

‘‘It’s always a very special time being selected for the All Blacks for the first time and the players and their families can be justifiably proud of all the hard work they have done to reach this point.

‘‘It was a really tough squad to select, more so because there are some very talented players who have missed out.

‘‘But I’m sure they will get their opportunity in the black jersey in the near future.’’

Sam Whitelock was named as the side’s captain in the absence of No 8 Kieran Read.

He is joined by Scott Barrett and Brodie Retallick at lock.

Highlanders fullback Ben Smith and Chiefs flanker Sam Cane were named as vicecaptains.

Harris and Codie Taylor are the two hookers, with Dane Coles being injured.

At prop, Crusaders trio Perry, Owen Franks and Joe Moody were joined by Jeffery ToomagaAllen and Ofa Tu’ungafasi.

Ardie Savea and Vaea Fifita were named in the loose forwards alongside Cane, Taufua and the Highlanders trio of Frizell, Whitelock and Squire.

Akira Ioane will also join with the side as an unofficial squad member as the selectors look to continue his development.

TJ Perenara and Aaron Smith both return at halfback, while Beauden Barrett and Damien McKenzie fill first fiveeighth slots.

There was no room for Rob Thompson in the midfield, where Goodhue, Ryan Crotty, Ngani Laumape, AntonLienertBrown and Sonny Bill Williams were all picked.

Out wide, Naholo and Ben Smith were joined by Nehe MilnerSkudder, Rieko Ioane and Jordie Barrett.