Steve Hansen:

When it came to selecting this side, we had to make some changes because of injuries, but we also looked to pick the best side possible for what we think will be a titanic battle against the French. It was a very physical match in Dublin on the weekend so we have looked to get this week’s preparation spot on - both mentally and physically - as we know France will also be looking to impose themselves upon us come Saturday night.

A predictable but very strong All Blacks side to take on the French in Paris. Even with a few injuries the side looks really good on paper. Kaino is back at 6 and Matt Todd is starting at 7 in place of an injured Sam Cane. Hopefully his ball fetching skills are on full display.

A collective “finally” let out by fans with TJ Perenara starting at half back with Aaron Smith on the bench. Ryan Crotty is a welcome sight back from injury to play 12. Anton Lienert-Brown shifts out one spot to the 13 jersey in place of the suspended Fekitoa.

Israel Dagg goes back to his preferred full back spot in place of the injured Ben Smith and Naholo is starting on the right wing. Exciting to see Rieko Ioane to cover the back 3 from the bench. Hopefully he gets a solid run around to show off his goods.

Also, a little nod to the future from Steve Hansen:

The Test is also another opportunity for our team to experience the Northern Hemisphere style of rugby which will give this new group another chance to learn and grow. We have introduced 11 new players to the All Blacks environment this year which can only bode well for the future.

In case you didn’t believe, Barrett really has been world class this year. He could finish the calendar year ahead of Dan Carter in 2 very interesting statistical areas:

Barrett is the only first five-eighth in international history to have scored eight tries in Test matches in a calendar year. Barrett has also converted 37 tries for the All Blacks this year - second only to Daniel Carter on 39.

The full matchday 23:

1. Joe Moody (23)

2. Dane Coles (48)

3. Owen Franks (89)

4. Brodie Retallick (59)

5. Samuel Whitelock (83)

6. Jerome Kaino (76)

7. Matt Todd (7)

8. Kieran Read - captain (96)

9. TJ Perenara (28)

10. Beauden Barrett (48)

11. Julian Savea (51)

12. Ryan Crotty (25)

13. Anton Lienert-Brown (7)

14. Waisake Naholo (11)

15. Israel Dagg (60)

16. Codie Taylor (14)

17. Wyatt Crockett (57)

18. Charlie Faumuina (45)

19. Scott Barrett (3)

20. Ardie Savea (11)

21. Aaron Smith (57)

22. Aaron Cruden (46)

23. Rieko Ioane (1)