Jack Drafted Into All Blacks Squad

Lock Chris Jack has been brought into the New Zealand squad for the two-Test series against Ireland, replacing the injured Ali Williams (ankle).

…New Zealand lock Chris Jack…

Lock Chris Jack has been brought into the New Zealand squad for the two-Test series against Ireland, replacing the injured Ali Williams.

Canterbury and Crusaders star Jack, 27, was due to take part in the Kiwis’ June 24 Test against Argentina in Buenos Aires but Williams, following his recovery, is now expected to play against the Pumas.

Auckland and Blues lock Williams injured his ankle, sustaining a syndesmosis injury, in training last month. The 25-man All Blacks squad for the Irish series trained in Hamilton on Monday.

Graham Henry’s pick of locks for the first Test in Hamilton next Saturday now includes the 47-times capped Jack and Blues pair Troy Flavell and Greg Rawlinson.

Flavell, who can also operate at flanker, has 15 Test caps to his name but has not played for the All Blacks since 2001. Disciplinary problems and a spell with Japanese club Toyota saw him run out of Test contention. The Durban-born Rawlinson, who stands at 6ft 7in, is uncapped.

Wellington Hurricanes prop Neemia Tialata is expected to be fit for the first Test despite injurying his knee in the recent Super 14 final.