Love gets first All Blacks call-up for Rugby Championship squad

Fullback Ruben Love has received his first All Blacks call-up while captain Scott Barrett was included in the 36-man squad for the Rugby Championship despite undergoing surgery on an injured finger.

Lock Josh Lord has been included as injury cover for Barrett, the All Blacks said on Sunday.

Loose forward Sam Cane, who has played 95 tests, returns to the squad after missing matches against England and Fiji earlier this month, along with midfielder David Havili and outside back Will Jordan.

"Sam Cane, Will and David bring a lot of experience and leadership to the group," All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson said in a statement.