It’s full steam ahead for the All Blacks, who have made no changes to the starting team to contest the Rugby World Cup against France on Sunday.
The side to be captained by Richie McCaw features just one change on the reserve bench, where Adam Thomson has recovered from an ankle injury and replaces Victor Vito as the loose forward cover.
The vastly experienced starting 15 boasts 708 test caps.
The All Blacks starting 15 are: Israel Dagg, Cory Jane, Conrad Smith, Ma’a Nonu, Richard Kahui, Aaron Cruden, Piri Weepu, Kieran Read, Richie McCaw, Jerome Kaino, Sam Whitelock, Brad Thorn, Owen Franks, Keven Mealamu, Tony Woodcock.
And in the reserves: Andrew Hore, Ben Franks, Ali Williams, Adam Thomson, Andy Ellis, Stephen Donald and Sonny Bill Williams.
Part-time coach and full time spectator Dan Carter likes the feel and momentum of the All Blacks ahead of Sunday’s Rugby World Cup final, believing they are on the upward curve for their clash with “nemesis” France.
Carter fronted the media yesterday, confirming the surgery on the groin injury that forced him out of the tournament had been a success but happy to give his thoughts on how the final was shaping.
Carter said his mates have to be better than they were last week if they are going to win this game adding all they can do is control what they are doing.
Former All Blacks captain, Tana Umaga who has also spent some time in France said the most dangerous thing is that All Blacks have gone into the confident mode.
Umaga said this can be costly as France will throw everything which no one can expect from them.
Meanwhile, France number 8,Imanol Harinordoquy who has won five six nations title with France said the team committing less mistakes will come out victors on Sunday night.
Harinordoquy who did not play against the All Blacks in the pool match clash said the All Blacks can be extremely dangerous and have scored some fantastic tries throughout the competition
The All Blacks will play France on Sunday at 9pm in the RWC final and you can catch the live commentary on our sister station Viti-FM with Malakai Veisamasama and Ilivasi Tabua.
Story by: Dhanjay Deo
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All Blacks name team to face France
