Winger Rene Ranger and flanker Liam Messam have been excluded from the All Blacks' squad to play Australia in the Tri-Nations rugby test in Melbourne on July 31.

Ranger, who scored a try in his starting debut as the All Blacks beat South Africa 31-17 in Wellington last Saturday, makes way for Joe Rokocoko, who has recovered from a hamstring strain.

Victor Vito, who sat out that match because of a calf injury, replaces Messam, who started the Springboks match off the reserves bench.

Prop John Afoa and lock Anthony Boric have also made the squad of 26 after watching from the stands in Wellington.

Blues halfback Alby Mathewson will also assemble with the squad as cover for Piri Weepu, who is preparing for the arrival of his first child.

Squad:

Forwards: John Afoa, Anthony Boric, Tom Donnelly, Corey Flynn, Ben Franks, Owen Franks, Jerome Kaino, Richie McCaw, Keven Mealamu, Kieran Read, Brad Thorn, Victor Vito, Samuel Whitelock and Tony Woodcock.

Backs: Daniel Carter, Jimmy Cowan, Aaron Cruden, Israel Dagg, Cory Jane, Mils Muliaina, Ma'a Nonu, Josevata Rokocoko, Conrad Smith, Benson Stanley and Piri Weepu. Alby Mathewson as cover for Weepu.

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