Former All Blacks Ethan Blackadder and Timoci 'Jim' Tavatavanawai have been included in the 44-strong New Zealand rugby squad to tour South Africa next month.
That has removed the two influential figures from the Tasman Mako side, who open their NPC campaign against North Harbour on Friday night.
Thirty-one-year-old Ethan played the last of his 14 tests in 2024 while Jim, 28, made two appearances last year.
Tasman-contracted All Black regulars Will Jordan and Tyrel Lomax are also in the squad for what’s being billed as "Rugby's Greatest Rivalry”.
With the All Blacks only taking three halfbacks to South Africa, Mako three-test halfback Noah Hotham has missed out.
There are three new caps in the squad – Chiefs utility back Josh Jacomb, Hurricanes prop Siale Lauaki, and Moana Pasifika loose forward Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa.
Meanwhile Crusaders loose forward Johnny Lee has been named to lead the Mako this season.
The 22-year-old debuted for the team in 2024 but has been limited to 11 matches after suffering a hamstring injury last season.
The Christ’s College product, who captained the Junior Crusaders, made his senior debut for the Crusaders this year.
