Fullback Mils Muliaina named captain in 26-man All Blacks squad
From correspondents in Auckland, New Zealand
May 31, 2009 Fullback Mils Muliaina has been named captain of an injury-depleted 26-man All Blacks squad to play home Tests against France and Italy in June.
Crusaders lock Isaac Ross and prop Wyatt Crocket, along with Chiefs flanker Tanerau Latimer were all named in their first All Blacks squad.
Muliaina, the captain of the Chiefs who were beaten 17-61 by the Bulls in the Super 14 final, takes over the leadership of the All Blacks from Richie McCaw, who has a knee injury.
Also not considered because of injury were loose forwards Rodney So'oialo and Scott Waldrom, winger Sitiveni Sivivatu, lock Anthony Boric, scrumhalf Andy Ellis, hooker Corey Flynn and flyhalf Daniel Carter.
Agence France-Presse
Forwards: John Afoa (Blues), Wyatt Crocket (Crusaders), Andrew Hore (Hurricanes), Jerome Kaino (Blues), Tanerau Latimer (Chiefs), Keven Mealamu (Blues), Liam Messam (Chiefs), Kieran Read (Crusaders), Isaac Ross (Crusaders), Adam Thompson (Highlanders), Brad Thorn (Crusaders), Niamia Tialata (Hurricanes), Ali Williams (Blues), Tony Woodcock (Blues)
Backs: Jimmy Cowan (Highlanders), Stephen Donald (Chiefs), Corey Jane (Hurricanes), Richard Kahui (Chiefs), Brendon Leonard (Chiefs), Mils Muliaina (captain, Chiefs), Ma'a Nonu (Hurricanes), Joe Rokocoko (Blues), Conrad Smith (Hurricanes) Isaia Toeava (Blues), Piri Weepu (Hurricanes), Rudi Wulf (Blues)
