The three-time world champions are bleeding after their historic 2-1 Test series defeat to Ireland in New Zealand.

There have been calls for the axing of the coach, Ian Foster and the captain, Sam Cane, however, they will both travel to tackle the Boks.

Speaking at his squad announcement, Foster said he is determined to return to winning ways.

“As a head coach there's been a lot of questions the last couple weeks, said Foster.

“Let me tell you who I am - I'm strong, I'm resilient, and I think that I have proven that.

“I believe I have a good feel and relationship with my players. I'm strategic and I'm also accountable. I take that on board.

“I promise you that I understand that, and I am really excited about the chance to show you what this team is made of.”

Foster added that while a there has been a lot of criticism over the captaincy of Cane, he still believes that the loose-forward is the correct man to lead the All Blacks.

“I believe in him as a person and as a player,” Foster said about his captain.

“The easiest thing to do when a series does not go your way is to point fingers and to blame and want people’s need.

“I have faith in Sam as player and person, and in the leadership group around him.

“We all know we have a high degree of accountability when you put on an All Blacks jersey and we need to do that better.”

The Springboks and All Blacks will battle it out on 6 August at the Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit.

All Blacks squad - Dane Coles, Samisoni Taukeiaho, Codie Taylor, Aidan Ross, George Bower, Nepo Laulala, Ofa Tu'ungafasi, Ethan de Groot, Angus Ta'avao, Scott Barrett, Brodie Retallick, Patrick Tuipulotu, Tupou Vaa'i, Samuel Whitelock, Sam Cane (captain), Shannon Frizell, Akira Ioane, Dalton Papalii, Ardie Savea, Hoskins Sotutu, Finlay Christie, Folau Fakatava, Aaron Smith, Beauden Barrett, Richie Mo'unga, Stephen Perofeta, Jack Goodhue, David Havili, Rieko Ioane, Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, Quinn Tupaea, Jordie Barrett, Caleb Clarke, Leicester Fainga'anuku, Will Jordan, Sevu Reece.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport