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New Zealand name 31-man Rugby World Cup squad

New Zealand coach Steve Hansen names his 31-man squad for the Rugby World Cup, with Israel Dagg and Cory Jane the most high-profile absentees.

New Zealand coach Steve Hansen has named 17 Rugby World Cup rookies in his 31-man squad for next month's tournament.

Full-back Israel Dagg and wing Cory Jane - who both started in the 2011 World Cup final - are not included in the group that will travel to England and Wales to defend the Webb Ellis Cup.

In a statement, Hansen said: "We believe we have selected players with the right mix of experience, X-factor, determination and mental strength.

"This is an exciting and talented group of players who are looking to do something that hasn't been done before, and make New Zealanders proud.

"We know that there are some players who are disappointed. We are a tight-knit family and it's always difficult when players miss out."

The All Blacks begin their World Cup campaign against Argentina on Monday, September 21.

New Zealand squad for the Rugby World Cup:

Ben Smith, Nehe Milner-Skudder, Waisake Naholo, Julian Savea, Conrad Smith, Malakai Fekitoa, Ma'a Nonu, Sonny Bill Williams, Dan Carter, Beauden Barrett, Colin Slade, Aaron Smith, TJ Perenara, Tawera Kerr-Barlow, Kieran Read, Victor Vito, Richie McCaw (captain), Sam Cane, Jerome Kaino, Liam Messam, Sam Whitelock, Brodie Retallick, Luke Romano, Owen Franks, Charlie Faumuina, Tony Woodcock, Wyatt Crockett, Ben Franks, Dane Coles, Keven Mealamu, Codie Taylor

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Ma'a Nonu of New Zealand celebrates his try with Aaron Smith during the International Test Match between the New Zealand All Blacks and England at Forsyth Barr Stadium on June 14, 2014
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