By Rowan Birch

Obviously the All Blacks had a fantastic 2011: winning the Rugby World Cup held on New Zealand soil, coming second place to the 'enemy' and the Crusaders runners up in Super Rugby. It was also the year of superstars in New Zealand, with Sonny Bill Williams, Ma'a Nonu and Israel Dagg setting the Southern Hemisphere alight.

But 2012 is a different story. Last year's heroes have fled overseas, become injured or are mere shadows of their previous years form. With workhorse Brad Thorn playing in Japan, Luke McCalister arriving at the bank of Stade Toulousain, Joe Rokocoko off to money-bags Clermont, Sitiveni Sivivatu moving to Bayonne and Mils Muliaina retired, that means they are all out of the selection window. This leaves a large void in the selection pool for New Zealand.

But what really doesn't help the Kiwis is the fact World Player of the Year Nominee Jerome Kaino is an almost definite doubt for this year's inaugural tournament. So who will replace him in the menacing back row of the All Blacks? Vito has been on scintillating form but is Adam Thompson more versatile? That is one for new coach Steve Hansen to ponder upon.

However, there are more selection issues for Hansen to think about. With Muliaina almost forced out last year, the full back role was virtually handed to Dagg. Few would argue he didn't deserve it, but Taylor (the Hurricanes 15) has been on fire this season. Being top scorer after eight rounds, he surely deserves a look in!

And lastly, where does Sonny Bill Williams play? Wing? Second Five Eighth? Outside centre? It all depends on the old Wellington midfield partners of Nonu and Smith's form. If they play well, SBW will probably be reverted to the bench like last year and he'll play the super sub role. But if they're off form, he will be the key figure and will lead the charge against the Southern Hemisphere's best international sides.

So there you have it. A quick guide to the All Blacks ahead of this years Rugby Championship. Whoever they select, New Zealand will want to carry in their great 2011 form into 2012.

Follow Rowan on Twitter @RowanBirch