All Blacks coach Steve Hansen has named a strong side to face the Wallabies in Tokyo this weekend, with a number of players also returning from injury.
Sonny Bill Williams has been named to start at second‑five, notching his 50th Test match, and will play alongside Ryan Crotty in the midfield.
Elsewhere, forwards Joe Moody and Liam Squire will start on their return from respective injuries, while Brodie Retallick and Nepo Laulala will also make their comebacks, named on the bench.
In a somewhat surprising selection, Damian McKenzie is preferred at fullback, with Ben Smith to start on the right wing.
There is no room for Jordie Barrett, omitted from the squad altogether.
The All Blacks face Australia on Saturday at 6pm.
STARTING XV: 15. Damian McKenzie, 14. Ben Smith, 13. Ryan Crotty, 12. Sonny Bill Williams, 11. Rieko Ioane, 10. Beauden Barrett, 9. TJ Perenara, 8. Kieran Read (c), 7. Ardie Savea, 6. Liam Squire, 5. Scott Barrett, 4. Sam Whitelock, 3. Owen Franks, 2. Codie Taylor, 1. Joe Moody.
RESERVES: 16. Nathan Harris, 17. Karl Tu'inukuafe, 18. Nepo Laulala, 19. Brodie Retallick, 20. Matt Todd, 21. Aaron Smith, 22. Richie Mo'unga, 23. Anton Lienert‑Brown.
[Source : TVNZ]
SPONSORED
