Dixon's breakthrough has come after six years in the south, deciding he wouldn't see much game time behind the likes of Kieran Read, Richie McCaw and Matt Todd.

Making 12 alterations to the match-day squad of 23 - including five in the starting line-up - is about "risk and reward", and that risk must be considered highest in the midfield.

The man is strong, so naturally powerful when he arrived a few years back for his initial assessment at the Blues that he busted all sorts of weightlifting marks. He had no history of lifting weights, he simply grabbed the tin and hoisted it.

All you need to know about latest All Blacks debutant Elliot Dixon - who will become All Black 1149 on Saturday against Wales.

Byron Kelleher has been arrested in France for "destruction and domestic violence", according to French reports.

The only area left untouched is at lock, with Sam Whitelock and Brodie Retallick retaining their positions.

It has been rare, possibly unprecedented, for there to be a genuine left-field surprise in an All Blacks rugby test team selected by coach Steve Hansen.

If there is one regret for the All Blacks from this June series, it is that they have been denied the opportunity to see Charlie Ngatai in action.

How will Steve Hansen approach his selection for Saturday's last test as he looks to keep the heat on Wales and his squad as he eyes the All Blacks next outing?

Sam Cane's mix of graft and craft and Ardie Savea's bash and dash have given the All Blacks a combination rather than competition at openside.

OPINION: If Michael Cheika could read between the lines, he just might realise that Steve Hansen's message was really for Eddie Jones.

Remember those battles Richie McCaw had with George Smith and Schalk Burger?

England's series-securing win over Australia could turn out to be the defining moment, writes Brian Moore.

Dane Coles' performance in the 36-22 victory over Wales at Westpac Stadium proved once again that he is a No 2 almost without peer in the world game.

Sitting behind a desk wearing glasses and a collared shirt, All Blacks rugby lock Brodie Retallick could pass for a mild mannered, if oversized, bank clerk.

Can we stop the All Blacks must play England entreaties, pleads Wynne Gray.

Cameron McMillan lists the key stats from the All Blacks second test win over Wales at Westpac Stadium.

Ardie Savea is Wellington's new hero in black, and it might not be long before his popularity extends to the rest of New Zealand and beyond.

All Blacks selector Grant Fox has said they will make small tweaks, but not wholesale changes for the third test.

England would be a huge chance to beat this All Black side, writes Chris Rattue.

The All Blacks selectors have to work out how many new faces they can introduce without derailing their current form.

Herald rugby writers Wynne Gray, Patrick McKendry and Gregor Paul answer three key questions following last night's test between the All Blacks and Wales.

Next week the All Blacks need to put the hammer down and stamp their authority before the Rugby Championship, writes Richard Loe.

Chris Rattue runs the rule over the standout players in the All Blacks' 36-22 win over Wales in Wellington last night.

Herald rugby expert Wynne Gray answers all your questions following the All Blacks' 36-22 win over Wales last night.

An unwelcome early check out left the All Blacks with the usual mix of satisfaction and irritation that early-season tests induce.