There's shock among Kiwi rugby fans, as Stephen Perofeta has been given the nod to start at fullback for the All Blacks in the first match of the year against England.

He's pipped fellow Taranaki and Blues playmaker Beauden Barrett to the starting role at 15 for Saturday's test in Dunedin, with the veteran of 119 tests on the bench.

Former All Black Sir John Kirwan says this is a wise choice ahead of the match.

"I think Beauden will need a little bit of time to get back at that level, and Stephen Perofeta has been a form player in the last few weeks."

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