All Blacks coach Steve Hansen wasn’t even tempted to make changes to his team for the second Test against France in Christchurch, believing consistency is the only pathway to early-season improvement.

The same starting XV that won the first Test 23-13 in Auckland will line up for the second match in the three-Test series on Saturday.

The veteran trio of halfback Piri Weepu, prop Tony Woodcock and hooker Andrew Hore come onto the reserves bench, replacing Tawera Kerr-Barlow, Ben Afeaki and Keven Mealamu respectively.

Loosehead Woodcock, who spent two days in hospital last week battling a nose infection, was considered to start the match and make his 97th Test appearance, but Hansen wanted to reward the strong scrummaging display at Eden Park from Wyatt Crockett.

The selectors agreed changes following a patchy first-up performance would have been counter-productive.

“At this time of year you need a bit of consistency (of selection) so you can get consistency on the park, or improvement in this case,” Hansen said.

Hore will bring up 75 Tests if used while Weepu has recovered from concussion and will play his 70th Test if called on to replace Aaron Smith.

Weepu would also extend his Test world record for appearances as a reserve to 46.

A milestone looms for captain Kieran Read, who will play his 50th Test.

Hansen says the breakdown, where he wants the ball carrier to be more aggressive, has been a focal point this week.

Also, he expects better kicking in general play from fly-half Aaron Cruden, with help from his teammates.

Hansen detected a more focused side this week.

“Everyone’s more comfortable. The more time you spend in each other’s company, the better you’ll get at something.

“The game was what we needed. Some of it wasn’t perfect but we didn’t expect it to be. What we expect this time, though, is an improvement.”

Hansen says Dan Carter (hand) and lock Sam Whitelock (finger) are progressing well in their recovery from injury and are on target to be available for the third Test in New Plymouth next week.

All Blacks: Israel Dagg, Ben Smith, Conrad Smith, Ma’a Nonu, Julian Savea, Aaron Cruden, Aaron Smith, Kieran Read (capt), Sam Cane, Liam Messam, Brodie Retallick, Luke Romano, Owen Franks, Dane Coles, Wyatt Crockett. Reserves: Andrew Hore, Tony Woodcock, Jeremy Thrush, Victor Vito, Piri Weepu, Beauden Barrett, Rene Ranger.