All Blacks coach Graham Henry has made eight changes in the side to play South Africa in their Tri-Nations Test here on Saturday, including the return of former captain Reuben Thorne.
The changes to the squad that beat Australia 32-12 two weeks ago indicate Henry is still intent on giving Test experience to as wide a group of players as possible ahead of next year’s World Cup.
South Africa’s 49-0 thrashing by Australia last week gives Henry some latitude in changing a successful team, while aiming to continue the impressive winning record of his world’s top-ranked side.
Henry said after naming the team on Tuesday that more changes had been made than initially planned by the selectors.
”We were encouraged by the way we played against Australia and we hope to maintain form while using more of the talent we have available in the squad,” he said.
”The changes help to keep all of our players physically and mentally sharp. We hope that can provide an edge for us against South Africa this weekend and for the Philips Tri-Nations series as a whole.”
Thorne, who last played at the 2003 World Cup, replaces Jerry Collins at blindside flanker. The 31-year-old made 41 Test appearances before losing his place in the clean-out following the unsuccessful World Cup campaign.
Three other changes in the forwards see hooker Anton Oliver and prop Neemia Tialata come into the front row for Keven Mealamu and Tony Woodcock, while lock Ali Williams replaces Jason Eaton.
Wingers Doug Howlett and Scott Hamilton take over from Rico Gear and Joe Rokocoko. Inside centre Sam Tuitupou takes over from Aaron Mauger and Piri Weepu replaces Byron Kelleher at halfback. – AFP
