All Blacks make seven changes for Italy

June 23, 2009 - 3:02PM


The All Blacks have made seven changes in the side that will play Italy in a one-off Test on Saturday, with winger Lelia Masaga and prop Wyatt Crockett making their Test debuts in the starting line-up.

Following a drawn two-Test series against France, All Black coach Graham Henry on Tuesday named a slightly more experimental lineup for the Test in Christchurch.

The 22-year-old Waikato Chiefs winger Masaga made his name in this year's Super 14 series and takes the place of Cory Jane, who goes to the bench despite being one of the standout backs against France.

Canterbury Crusaders loosehead prop Crockett will join Keven Mealamu and John Afoa in the front row, with Tony Woodcock going into the reserves.

Scrumhalf Brendon Leonard makes his first appearance for the All Blacks in more than a year after being plagued by injuries.

Luke McAlister replaces Stephen Donald at flyhalf in his first start for the All Blacks since joining English club Sale for an 18-month stint after the 2007 World Cup.

Veteran lock Ali Williams returns for his 62nd Test after recovering from an Achilles tendon injury, replacing Isaac Ross.

Centre Conrad Smith was not considered due to injury and is being replaced by Isaia Toeava, and prop Neemia Tialata was also ruled through injury.

"We are looking for continued improvement after our win over France, but we know that the Italians will be as well after their two losses to Australia, so it will be another physical Test," Henry said.

New Zealand: Mils Muliaina (captain), Lelia Masaga, Isaia Toeava, Ma'a Nonu, Joe Rokocoko, Luke McAlister, Brendon Leonard, Kieran Read, Tanerau Latimer, Jerome Kaino, Ali Williams, Brad Thorn, John Afoa, Keven Mealamu, Wyatt Crockett. Res: Aled de Malmanche, Tony Woodcock, Owen Franks, Isaac Ross, George Whitelock, Piri Weepu, Cory Jane.
© 2009 AFP


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