Graham Henry lists All Blacks roster for upcoming Tri Nations encounter against Springboks
All Blacks head coach, Graham Henry, has announced the match day 22 on Thursday, August 18, for the upcoming Tri Nations encounter against the Springboks. The South Africans, who are still looking for their first win in the 2011 Tri Nations encounter, will
host the All Blacks at Port Elizabeth on Saturday, August 20.
Henry has lined-up his best second-string side, as the All Blacks will press forward to register their first win against the Springboks on this venue. All Blacks so far has played four matches on this venue, and ended on the losing side on each occasion.
Commenting on the occasion, Henry said, “There is excitement across the board in the squad and every player will be looking to put in a big performance this weekend. Playing the Springboks at home is always a massive occasion and with Rugby World Cup spots
also up for grabs; our players will be looking to put in a big performance.”
Henry has named the hooker Keven Mealamu as the captain of the side, in the absence of Richie McCaw.
Earlier, All Blacks returned the favour to Springboks by resting several of their key first choices players for their tour of South Africa. Besides McCaw other players, who are rested include Dan Carter, Brad Thorn, Kieran Read, Conrad Smith, Mils Muliaina,
and Owen Franks.
Henry added that he and his side are cautious of the Springboks availability and desire to register a win to end their disappointing tournament so far, on a high note. He urged his players to be prepared for a strong physical encounter.
The All Blacks squad, test caps are given in the bracket, for Saturday’s encounter against the Springboks:
Starting XV: 15. Israel Dagg (6), 14. Isaia Toeava (30), 13. Richard Kahui (11), 12. Sonny Bill Williams (6), 11. Hosea Gear (7), 10. Colin Slade (4), 9. Jimmy Cowan (46), 8. Liam Messam (8), 7. Adam Thomson (20), 6. Jerome Kaino (40), 5. Ali Williams (64),
4. Samuel Whitelock (16), 3. John Afoa (32), 2. Keven Mealamu - captain (84), 1. Tony Woodcock (74)
Replacements:16. Andrew h**e (53) , 17. Ben Franks (10) , 18. Jarrad Hoeata (2) , 19. Victor Vito (6) , 20. Andy Ellis (19) , 21. Piri Weepu (47) , 22. Cory Jane (23).
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