New Zealand flanker Jerry Collins has recovered from a heel injury and will take his place in the pack for the second Test against France in Wellington on Saturday.
All Blacks coach Graham Henry made six changes to the side that routed the inexperienced French party 42-11 at Auckland’s Eden Park last weekend.
”We are looking for more improvement this week,” Henry said in a statement on Tuesday. ”Our execution can be better and we can handle stoppages better as well.
”We always wanted to play everyone during the series plus we have Byron Kelleher and Conrad Smith back from injury, so there have been a number of changes to the starting team.
”At the same time, we’re also trying to give a bit of time out to some players who had long Super 14 campaigns.
Samoa-born Collins comes in at blindside for his 39th cap to replace Reuben Thorne, and Anton Oliver returns in place of Keven Mealamu at hooker. Rodney So’oialo replaces Chris Masoe at number eight as lock Chris Jack makes way for Keith Robinson.
Aaron Mauger, who scored two tries in the first Test win, makes way for Luke McAlister at centre, and halfback Piri Weepu is replaced by Byron Kelleher.
Mils Muliaina was not considered for selection due to a hamstring injury and centre Smith returns on the bench. Replacement player Ma’a Nonu was released from the squad.
France coach Bernard Laporte made four changes when he announced his side earlier on Tuesday. – Reuters