But the biggest talking point, on social media at least, was the inclusion of Sonny Bill Williams.
It seems, no matter where he goes or what he does, the Super Rugby and NRL Premiership winning back divides opinion.
Popular Kiwi broadcaster Tony Veitch’s hugely influential Facebook page was inundated with comments regarding SBW’s inclusion in the 31-man side.
“Spewing…Sbw can do without,” commented Cooper Miller, while Renee said “SBW can go back to NRL!!”
The reaction was much the same on Twitter, where many felt Williams hadn’t done enough to warrant selection.
Ryan Crotty over SBW
— Snowy ⛄️ (@_sammyjonesy) August 30, 2015
@dmc_21 @FoxyLustyGrover Not a big SBW fan. He doesn't know the game well enough, and no loyalty. A good player is left behind to take him.
— Scott Milne (@LostArcNZ) August 30, 2015
lmao what the heck is up with the abs selection... sbw?? Really?? Over the rest you didn't pick... sad.
— Sumnar Steele (@sumnar_says) August 30, 2015
My nana calls up to bitch with my dad about SBW kskskskksdnsnja
— franny payne (@franemiIia) August 30, 2015
@caffeine_addict Explain the inclusion of SBW then. NOT on his form!
— Colleen Kilworth (@c_kilworth) August 30, 2015
So useless SBW got named in #RWC2015 squad Srsly makes u wonder what's hapn behind the scenes or what favors are been given. #AllBlacks
— Hugo (@hugobrown) August 30, 2015
SBW is over rated. Good looking but 😕
— K E L S (@_kelsieann) August 30, 2015