Loose forward Jerome Kaino will make his return for the All Blacks after a break of two-and-a-half years when he runs out against England in Auckland on Saturday night.

He will wear the No.8 jersey in place of Kieran Read, who was withdrawn from selection contention earlier this week because of on-going concussion issues.

Kaino’s 48th and last cap came in the World Cup final victory over France at the same ground in October 2011.

He has been in excellent form for the Blues this season after returning from two years in Japan.

There is plenty of experience in the All Blacks’ match-day 23 – a total of 968 caps.

But a feature of the bench is three uncapped players in halfback TJ Perenara, midfielder Malakai Fekitoa and lock Patrick Tuipulotu.

The inclusion of Fekitoa and Tuipulotu comes after strong performances as Super Rugby rookies for the Highlanders and the Blues respectively.

Blockbusting winger Julian Savea, who was in doubt with a knee problem, hasn’t been selected, with fellow Hurricane Cory Jane getting the No.11 jersey and Ben Smith on the other flank.

At flyhalf, Aaron Cruden has been given the nod ahead of the in-form Beauden Barrett, who is on the bench.

Cruden made his return to rugby a fortnight ago after six weeks out with a broken thumb.

All Blacks coach Steve Hansen says England will provide his team with an immediate benchmark for the new season.

“It is the first time in our long history that we are playing a three-match series against England and they are the perfect opponent for us at this time,” he said.

“We have a healthy respect for England and what they will bring to the contest.”

Hansen expected a physical battle, with plenty of ball movement, which would challenge the teams both in terms of fitness and also mentally.

NEW ZEALAND: Israel Dagg, Ben Smith, Conrad Smith, Ma’a Nonu, Cory Jane, Aaron Cruden, Aaron Smith, Jerome Kaino, Richie McCaw (capt), Liam Messam, Sam Whitelock, Brodie Retallick, Owen Franks, Dane Coles, Tony Woodcock.

RESERVES: Keven Mealamu, Wyatt Crockett, Charlie Faumuina, Patrick Tuipulotu, Victor Vito, TJ Perenara, Beauden Barrett, Malakai Fekitoa.