The team includes just four changes to the side that beat the Wallabies in Perth in the final round of the Lipovitan-D Rugby Championship.
Ethan de Groot returns from concussion to join Fletcher Newell and Codie Taylor in the starting front row. This sees Tamaiti Williams move to the bench where he will play an impact role alongside fellow front-rowers Pasilio Tosi and Samisoni Taukei’aho.
The only other change to the forwards is on the bench, with lock Josh Lord coming into the side to replace the injured Patrick Tuipulotu.
In the backs, Beauden Barrett returns from a shoulder injury to start at first-five eighth, and Caleb Clarke returns from his ankle injury to take the left wing. Leicester Fainga’anuku and Damian McKenzie move into the reserves to join halfback Cortez Ratima as the back line cover.
All Blacks Head Coach Scott Robertson said the squad has prepared well in Chicago this week for what they know will be a tough match against Ireland.
“This is an awesome match to kick off our Northern Tour with. Ireland are a strong side and will have a loud contingent of supporters here in Chicago, so we are prepared for a passionate clash on the Soldier Field stage. We have had a great week together leading up to the Test and now we are looking forward to the contest on Saturday afternoon.”
All Blacks match-day 23 (Test caps in brackets)
1. Ethan de Groot (37)
2. Codie Taylor (103)
3. Fletcher Newell (31)
4. Scott Barrett (86) (Captain)
5. Fabian Holland (9)
6. Simon Parker (5)
7. Ardie Savea (103) (Vice-Captain)
8. Peter Lakai (5)
9. Cam Roigard (14)
10. Beauden Barrett (141)
11. Caleb Clarke (30)
12. Jordie Barrett (77) (Vice-Captain)
13. Quinn Tupaea (21)
14. Leroy Carter (3)
15. Will Jordan (50)
16. Samisoni Taukei’aho (39)
17. Tamaiti Williams (23)
18. Pasilio Tosi (12)
19. Josh Lord (8)
20. Wallace Sititi (15)
21. Cortez Ratima (18)
22. Leicester Fainga’anuku (8)
23. Damian McKenzie (70)
