By Brad Lewis
Expect rotation in the All Blacks over the course of the next three Test matches as Steve Hansen and co look to plot their march towards perfection in 2016.
The world champions have stuck with the first-stringers this season unless injury has prevented, as with the case of Sam Cane last weekend.
But that will change as Hansen looks to balance consistency in selection with player welfare and management.
"It's the time of the year when we have to start using the group," Hansen said.
"It also fits in with the fact that the new guys have been in or around the squad for quite some time and are more ready to take the opportunity."
"All in all it's just the timing of the thing, rather than who we are playing."
The All Blacks coach expects changes to be made in the selections for the next three Tests, beginning with a clash against the Pumas in Buenos Aries next weekend.
"Clearly we can't ask the same guys to front up each week and play the games, so we will have to be smart about our selections.
"You don't want to use those things as excuses because they're not, the fact is we still have to get up and play well so that will be then main thing we focus on that our preparation allows us to do that."
Hansen expects the pressure the Pumas were able to inflict on the All Blacks for 40 minutes in Hamilton three weeks ago will be served in full next weekend.
"They are a stronger beast at home, there is no doubt about that."
"Their rugby results are a lot better at home than they are away so that will make it difficult and they will be well rested."
After taking on Argentina, the All Blacks will head to South Africa for their final Rugby Championship Test, before a dead rubber Bledisloe Cup clash against Australia in Auckland next month.
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