All Blacks coach Dave Rennie names his first side of the year for test against France

New All Blacks coach Dave Rennie has been true to his word of selecting on form, handing the reins at first-five to Ruben Love.

Rennie had also named debutants Fehi Fineanganofo and Xavier Numia on the bench for the first test of the Nations Championship against France in Christchurch on Saturday.

Veteran Beauden Barrett has been omitted from the 23, with Damian McKenzie getting the nod at fullback and Will Jordan taking the 14 jersey.

In the hotly contested mid-field, Quinn Tupaea wins the race for centre with Billy Proctor on the pine, while Luke Jacobson has edged out Wallace Sititi to start at openside, skipper Ardie Savea at number eight.

Sam Darry and Josh Lord start at lock with Tupou Vai'i dealing with concussion.

Ethan de Groot, Codie Taylor and Fletcher Newell make up the starting front row.

Rennie said the 23 is reflective of Super Rugby form, as well as crucial Test match experience.

"There is no doubt players have forced our hand as selectors through quality Super Rugby performances. We have selected an exciting blend of experience and youth, with a powerful bench that will add impact."

All Blacks team to play France:

(Test caps in brackets)

1. Ethan de Groot (40)

2. Codie Taylor (106)

3. Fletcher Newell (35)

4. Josh Lord (12)

5. Sam Darry (8)

6. Peter Lakai (8)

7. Luke Jacobson (24)

8. Ardie Savea (106) (Captain)

9. Cam Roigard (17)

10. Ruben Love (5)

11. Caleb Clarke (33)

12. Jordie Barrett (78)

13. Quinn Tupaea (24)

14. Will Jordan (54)

15. Damian McKenzie (74)

Bench:

16. Asafo Aumua (20)

17. Xavier Numia *

18. Tyrel Lomax (48)

19. Patrick Tuipulotu (56)

20. Wallace Sititi (19)

21. Cortez Ratima (21)

22. Billy Proctor (11)

23. Fehi Fineanganofo *

Unavailable due to injury: Tupou Vaa'i (concussion)