Fekitoa called into All Blacks squad for series decider

WELLINGTON (Reuters) - Malakai Fekitoa has been called into the All Blacks squad for the final test against the British and Irish Lions, the team said on Sunday.

(Reuters)

Fekitoa was a surprise omission from the original squad for the series and was also overlooked as injury cover for Ryan Crotty with uncapped Canterbury Crusaders centre Jack Goodhue preferred instead as Crotty was battling a rib injury.

The All Blacks have issues in midfield with Crotty suffering a hamstring injury in the 30-15 first test victory, while Sonny Bill Williams received a red card in the 24-21 loss in the second game and is expected to face a suspension at a judicial hearing on Sunday.

Ngani Laumape made his debut off the bench at Wellington Regional Stadium and could start at inside centre alongside Anton Lienert-Brown in the decider at Eden Park on July 8.

(Reporting by Greg Stutchbury; Editing by Peter Rutherford)