Lord’s inclusion also provides a local connection. The lock came through the ranks at Tauranga Boys’ College before progressing to Waikato and the Chiefs and has become a regular member of the national squad.
McKenzie remains one of the most experienced players in the side and will provide plenty of attacking spark from the back. The Chiefs playmaker is one of five players in the starting XV with more than 40 test caps.
Chiefs loose forward Luke Jacobson will captain the All Blacks for the first time.
“Luke is the obvious choice to captain the team against the Sharks. He is highly respected, has a great feel for the game and will lead through his actions,” Rennie said.
Two players, hooker Bradley Slater and loose forward Semisi Ta’eiloa, are in line to make their first appearances in All Blacks jerseys from the bench.
“On behalf of the whole squad, I want to congratulate Semisi and Bradley on achieving this very special milestone, and I know their family and friends will be incredibly proud,” Rennie said.
The Sharks match comes after seven players who featured in the victory over the Stormers earned another place in the match-day 23.
Asafo Aumua, Sam Darry, Kyle Preston and Caleb Clarke have all been promoted to the starting line-up, while Pasilio Tosi, Ollie Norris and Ethan Blackadder will again provide impact from the bench.
The All Blacks have a strong historical record against the Sharks’ predecessor, Natal, winning five of their six previous matches and drawing one.
Kickoff is scheduled for 7pm local time on Tuesday (5am Wednesday NZT).