Williams' experience valuable to All Black environment

A wealth of experience has saved Ali Williams from the All Blacks chop.

Williams has been included in Steve Hansen's 35-man training squad despite struggling for the Blues this Super Rugby season.

Piri Weepu's also been handed a chance despite a similar frame of form.

But Hansen says there's more to Williams than just form.

"73 tests count for a lot and particularly when the 73 tests have been played at a very high level. We're really comfortable and confident that bringing him into our environment we can get him where we need him to be."

There are 11-new caps in the squad, including Crusaders forwards Luke Romano and Luke Whitelock.

Hurricanes trio Beauden Barrett, Julian Savea and Brad Shields are also there while Highlanders halfback Aaron Smith is one of four players vying for the nine jersey as is Chiefs youngster Tawera Kerr-Barlow.

Brodie Retallick, Sam Cane and Ben Tameifuna are other Chiefs new faces.

Photo: Photosport