Fiji have won only two of their last five men's Tests (L3), with both of those wins coming against Georgia; they will be hunting for back-to-back wins in men's Tests for the first time since August 2019 after picking up a 38-24 win over Georgia last time out (December 2020).

Peni Narisia, Eneriko Buliruarua and Manasa Mataele make their debuts for Fiji.

Fiji's backline which has always been a strength sees experienced players dominating with Ben Volavola and Simione Kuruvoli sharing the halves position, captain Levani Botia and Waisea Nayacalevu will marshal the midfield, strong and powerful runners Nemani Nadolo and Eroni Sau are on the wings while Kini Murimurivalu is at full-back.

Cotter added “Eroni Sau has trained very well and he has fitted in quickly. He has impressed us and had a very good season with Edinburgh so his continuing that form, Nemani has had a big season with Leicester with Kini Murimurivalu and Waisea Nayacalevu has also had a good season.”

“We have been happy with the preparation, that hasn’t been ideal but when we see what’s happening in Fiji, we just want to play well and hopefully we will lift spirits on the island.

Peni Ravai, Sam Matavei and Mesake Doge will lead the pack in the front row, guided by the experienced hands of Leone Nakarawa in the second row and Albert Tuisue at backrow.

Cotter said “Leone Nakarawa coming back in the team has helped cohesion in the lineout and lineout calling as he brings experience.

Some young players have been named on the bench, such as Peni Narisia who plays for Brive has been playing well and has impressed us.”

He added “We will need leadership and the forwards will have to be very good because we have to protect Simione Kuruvoli who is only having his second game with Fiji against the All Blacks and his opponent is Aron Smith, so it will be a great day for him, therefore, the forwards must be strong to protect him.

On this weekend’s Test, Foster added: “The Fijian team will bring a very different challenge from Tonga. They are a more established side made up of primarily overseas-based players, who are amongst some of the better players in Europe.

“We can’t wait to play under the roof at Forsyth Barr Stadium. It should be a fast, physical match and our team are excited by what the weekend will bring.”

On Smith’s captaincy, All Blacks Head Coach Ian Foster said: “Aaron is a special player with real mana and a natural leader and his preparation is second to none. I’m sure he, his wife Teagan and his wider whānau will be proud of what he has achieved.

“We also want to congratulate Ethan on his selection. It’ll be a great occasion for him and his family and friends and we look forward to seeing him play.