Smith and Cruden make All Black starting XV

Manawatu's dynamic duo, Aaron Cruden and Aaron Smith, will start a test match together for the first time when the All Blacks meet Ireland in the third test in Hamilton on Saturday.

Cruden replaces an injured Dan Carter at first five while Smith retains his spot at halfback after two quality performances in the previous two tests.

The All Blacks squad for the test is:

Israel Dagg, Ben Smith, Conrad Smith, Sonny Bill Williams, Hosea Gear, Aaron Cruden, Aaron Smith, Richie McCaw, Sam Cane, Liam Messam, Sam Whitelock, Luke Romano, Owen Franks, Andrew Hore, Tony Woodcock. Reserves: Keven Mealamu, Ben Franks, Brodie Retallick, Adam Thomson, Piri Weepu, Beauden Barrett, Tamati Ellison.

Kick off is 7:35pm.

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