The All Blacks squad to play in the inaugural Rugby Championship this year has been named.

The most notable absentee is Zac Guildford who lost his place to Wellington winger Hosea Gear.

Conrad Smith is named in the squad but won't be available to play in the opening Bledisloe cup matches - his replacement likely to be Sonny Bill Williams.

The Auckland prop Charlie Faumuina is the only new face, while injuries to Anthony Boric, Ali Williams and Richard Kahui meant they weren't considered.

The Squad:
Andrew Hore, Keven Mealamu, Wyatt Crockett, Charlie Faumuina, Ben Franks, Owen Franks, Tony Woodcock, Brodie Retallick, Luke Romano, Samuel Whitelock, Sam Cane, Richie McCaw (C), Liam Messam, Kieran Read, Adam Thomson, Victor Vito, Aaron Smith, Piri Weepu, Daniel Carter, Aaron Cruden, Tamati Ellison, Ma’a Nonu, Conrad Smith, Israel Dagg, Hosea Gear, Cory Jane, Ben Smith, Julian Savea

Meanwhile, the Chiefs thrashed the Sharks 37-6 last night in the super rugby final.

Story by: Filipe naikaso
Source: Allblacks.com