Five Selection Surprises Steve Hansen Could Spring On Joe Schmidt

All Blacks head coach Steve Hansen is known for throwing a few selection surprises for big games and could continue that trend for his side's heavyweight clash with Ireland this weekend.

Hansen handed speedster Rieko Ioane his first test start against the British and Irish Lions last year and has made a few surprising selections this year already notably giving Shannon Frizell his first test start against France as well as giving TJ Perenara a start in the final Bledisloe Cup test against the Wallabies.

Here are a few surprises he could spring upon Joe Schmidt's side:

Matt Todd 

Todd was recalled into the All Black squad following the injury to Sam Cane. Todd is never too far from a starting role and never disappoints when given the opportunity.

The Crusaders' man could well be given the starting #7 jersey in an attempt to get a more specialised fetcher in the starting line up. Todd could replace Ardie Savea in the starting lineup with Savea covering all three back row positions from the bench

The change would be a harsh one on Savea who has excelled in the starting lineup.

TJ Perenara

Aaron Smith has been slightly off form recently and with TJ Perenara nipping at his heels, Hansen could hand the Hurricanes scrumhalf a start in a major test. 

Perenara didn't disappoint against the Wallabies and has repeatedly produced quality performances when given the starting role.

Ben Smith at fullback

Damian McKenzie was excellent at fullback for the All Blacks last weekend and the All Blacks look intent on sticking with a playmaker at flyhalf and fullback but could opt for a more direct approach against Ireland. 

With Sonny Bill Williams missing the test the All Blacks could call on Waisake Naholo to start on the right wing with Ben Smith reverting to fullback to give the All Blacks a big ball carrier from the set pieces.

Dane Coles returns to the starting XV

Despite missing almost a full year of rugby, Dane Coles is still regarded as one of the best hookers in the game. Coles could return to the starting line up this weekend with Codie Taylor returning to the bench despite impressing in the Hurricanes' captain absence. 

Richie Mo'unga 

The Crusaders' flyhalf has been nothing short of sublime for the All Blacks with every opportunity has been given.

Mo'unga has been given starts against Argentina and Japan but has featured more regularly from the bench replacing Damian McKenzie with Beauden Barrett moving to fullback.

Mo'unga could be thrown into the deep in against Ireland with Beauden Barrett moving fullback.

The 24-year-old is the team's first choice kicker as he regularly and accuracy from the tee could be a telling difference in the clash.