The Dave Rennie All Blacks era begins with two debutants for France clash

Impressive young locks, Josh Lord and Sam Darry, take the starting spots and Patrick Tuipulotu will bring experience and physicality from the reserves. Tupou Vaa'i has been ruled out for this match while he continues to recover from concussion.

Peter Lakai and Luke Jacobson will wear the All Blacks 6 and 7 jerseys for the first time, respectively, while captain Ardie Savea completes the starting loose forward trio and Wallace Sititi provides cover.

Dynamic duo Cam Roigard and Ruben Love will direct play in the backs, with Love making his first start at 10 for the All Blacks, and Cortez Ratima covering halfback.

A strong midfield combination of Jordie Barrett and Quinn Tupaea will have Billy Proctor for impact cover.

The back three consists of Caleb Clarke and Will Jordan on the wings, and Damian McKenzie at fullback. Outside back Fehi Fineanganofo will prepare to make his All Blacks debut off the bench, as will prop Xavier Numia.

Rennie said the 23 is reflective of Super Rugby form, as well as crucial Test match experience.

"There is no doubt players have forced our hand as selectors through quality Super Rugby performances. We have selected an exciting blend of experience and youth, with a powerful bench that will add impact," he told allblacks.com

"We know we will be facing a formidable French side with a strong set piece, kicking game and ability to keep the ball alive, so we will need to be physical, accurate and alert. We've worked hard and connected well over the past nine days. That clarity will give us the opportunity to express ourselves.

"It is an honour to play the first Test match at the new Christchurch stadium and to bring the All Blacks back to this proud rugby region. What a way to start our season, playing under the roof in front of a sold-out stadium."

New Zealand -15 Damian McKenzie, 14 Will Jordan, 13 Quinn Tupaea, 12 Jordie Barrett, 11 Caleb Clarke, 10 Ruben Love, 9 Cam Roigard, 8 Ardie Savea (c), 7 Luke Jacobson, 6 Peter Lakai, 5 Sam Darry, 4 Josh Lord, 3 Fletcher Newell, 2 Codie Taylor, 1 Ethan de Groot.

Replacements: 16 Asafo Aumua, 17 Xavier Numia, 18 Tyrel Lomax, 19 Patrick Tuipulotu, 20 Wallace Sititi, 21 Cortez Ratima, 22 Billy Proctor, 23 Fehi Fineanganofo.

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