The All Blacks selectors have made seven changes to face Wallabies this Saturday.

Four forwards will play their first test of the season, hooker Keven Mealamu, prop Owen Franks, lock Brad Thorn and number eight Kieran Read.

In the backs Piri Weepu has been picked at halfback, Hosea Gear returns from his recent hamstring injury to start his first test of the year on the left wing, while Sitiveni Sivivatu is on the right wing.

Coach Graham Henry said they’re expecting a completely different level of intensity on Saturday compared to that posed by the Springboks last weekend.

All Blacks midfielders Ma’a Nonu and Conrad Smith will set a new milestone this weekend when they will play their 29th test together.

Meanwhile first five Daniel Carter will be playing his 82nd test as well.

The All Blacks and Wallabies match kicks off 7.35pm this Saturday.


Story by: Dhanjay Deo
Source: Radio NZ