Liam Squire and Damian McKenzie to play Rugby Championship opener for All Blacks against Australia

While Damian McKenzie's selection at fullback for the first Bledisloe will grab headlines, Liam Squire's nod at blindside could be the real look into the All Blacks' crystal ball.

There are just two years until the World Cup in Japan and the All Blacks need to prepare Liam Squire as an enforcer in 2019.

Jerome Kaino has done a superb job of pounding the opposition for 81 tests but he will be 36 in Japan. That's long in the tooth for a world class flanker.

The All Blacks have heralded Squire's potential for some time. He's athletic, bruising, carries the ball well and is a good lineout option.

In other words, he's like a young Jerome Kaino. If he can balance his raw boned approach with discipline, he'll be a force to be reckoned with.

On the other hand, Damian McKenzie's future isn't seen at fifteen. Yet, that's where he'll be on Saturday against the Wallabies in Sydney.

Steve Hansen's been at pains to spell out that he thinks McKenzie is a 10. The selectors hands have been forced and he'll play 15 against the Wallabies in Sydney on Saturday.

It's understood Israel Dagg is injured, and with Jordie Barrett also sidelined, McKenzie will play fullback in his third test, while Ben Smith shifts to the right wing. It's the best use of their resources in Sydney, with Nehe Milner-Shudder left at home. 

McKenzie was Super Rugby player of the year, so form suggests he'll do a good job, even if he's not seen as a long term option there.

However, his World Cup chances might rest on his ability to play both off the bench. Saturday is a good starting point.

The other talking point of today's selections is the tried and true.

Sonny Bill Williams hasn't played a first class game of rugby since his suspension from the second Lions test.

He's only had a gallop for Counties-Manukau B. It shows how much the selectors like Williams, to force Ryan Crotty to 13 and keep Anton Lienert-Brown on the bench.

Crotty and Lienert-Brown are a potent combination and have put in quality performances in the Super Rugby playoffs.

The selectors have faith in Williams, despite his lack of match play and brain fade in Wellington. They back his decision making on attack and defence and love his work ethic. 

This is a selection that offers something for the future and the past. With two years until the World Cup, it's time to make sure young and old are up to the test.

With several of his All Blacks regulars leaving Kiwi shores post-Lions, Steve Hansen has also been forced to make changes to his bench.

Blues prop Ofa Tu'ungafasi will replace ex-teammate Charlie Faumuina, while Lima Sopoaga has been rewarded for his patience, named as first-five backup behind Beauden Barrett.

Hansen said his side were determined to retain the Bledisloe Cup, a coverted prize they have held since 2003.

"It's the biggest trophy we play for outside of the World Cup and it means a lot to the group - it's part of who are we, and our legacy is about honouring, respecting and enhancing the jersey," Hansen said.

"We've held this trophy for a while, and no one wants to be part of giving it up."

All Blacks: Damian McKenzie, Ben Smith, Ryan Crotty, Sonny Bill Williams, Rieko Ioane, Beauden Barrett, Aaron Smith, Kieran Read (c), Sam Cane, Liam Squire, Sam Whitelock, Brodie Retallick, Owen Franks, Codie Taylor, Joe Moody.

Reserves: Nathan Harris, Wyatt Crockett, Ofa Tu'ungafasi, Luke Romano, Ardie Savea, TJ Perenara, Lima Sopoaga, Anton Lienert-Brown.

Newshub.