New Zealand will be without returning rugby league star Sonny Bill Williams, but coach Stephen Kearney said there's still plenty of talent in the 19-strong squad named for the Friday's Test against Australia.

The Kiwis suffered a big blow when Williams was ruled out by injury and the team is already without playmaker Benji Marshall and Warriors halfback Shaun Johnson who suffered a knee injury last Saturday night.

Meanwhile, Simon Mannering who is the most experienced player in the squad with 30 test will captain his country for the first time.

The match between Australia and New Zealand kicks off at 9.45pm tomorrow.

Story by: Rusiate Baleilevuka
Source: NRL