All Black class of 2015 in place: Hansen

The All Blacks World Cup squad of 2015 will be constructed around the vast majority of the current tour group according to coach Steve Hansen.

It will take a "horrifically good" player to force his way into Steve Hansen's All Blacks squad to defend their World Cup crown.

Almost two years out from the tournament, coach Hansen is comfortable admitting his current tour squad will provide the vast majority of the group to contest the 2015 tournament in England.

"Hopefully, otherwise we haven't selected very well now and there must be some horrifically good players coming that I haven't seen," he said.

"Although one or two of them, that'd be quite good."

Hansen has steadily altered the All Blacks' squad since succeeding Graham Henry after the 2011 World Cup triumph.

After introducing nine new caps last year and bringing in 12 this year, this could become 13 if uncapped halfback TJ Perenara plays against Ireland in Dublin on Sunday.

Such a turnover will slow down from next year, Hansen says.

"Hopefully, we don't have to introduce too many more.

"There will be some new faces - that's a natural thing and who knows who's going to retire?

"But I don't think we'll go to the extent of another 20, as we've done in the last two years."

Hansen says all of the current tour group have committed themselves to seeking selection for 2015, with the possible exception of Andrew Hore.

The veteran hooker's involvement is uncertain after failing to earn a Super Rugby contract for next year.

"Otherwise, people are saying, 'well, I'm good enough to be here' and, as long as they perform well enough in Super Rugby, then they'll get the opportunity."

Hansen says he is happy with the mix of experience and youth which has carried them to 13 wins from 13 Tests this year.

The current tour has been especially valuable, he says, as the intense challenge provided by France and England mirrors what they can expect in the latter stages of the next World Cup.

"What they went through, in terms of mental fortitude, was important.

"Staying on task and trusting yourselves and your teammates to do the job is important."


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Source: AAP


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