Denied his 100th-cap by a calf strain that ruled him out of New Zealand’s match against Japan, captain Richie McCaw will be primed to celebrate the milestone in style against World Cup nemesis France today.
Barring another unforeseen niggle, the soft spoken 30-year-old will become the first to play 100 tests for the All Blacks when he runs out onto Eden Park where home fans can be expected to pay a glowing tribute to their revered rugby team’s skipper.
McCaw is regarded in New Zealand as a man of “mana”, a person of great leadership.
All Blacks coach Graham Henry said McCaw is special to them.
Tonight’s game is more special for McCaw as he is up against the team that knocked out the All Blacks twice in the quarterfinal stages of the Rugby World Cup.
McCaw, who has been the captain of the All Blacks for the last five years, said tonight’s match means a lot to him.
The All Blacks and France match kicks off 8.30 tonight at Eden Park.
Meanwhile, at 6pm today, England will play Romania.
Still on the Rugby World Cup:
Australia coach Robbie Deans faces a severe injury crisis after their 67-5 victory over United States last night.
Centre Anthony Fainga’a was knocked unconscious in the final minute of the match, while fellow midfield backs Rob Horne has a fractured cheek bone and Pat McCabe dislocated his shoulder.
Fullback Kurtley Beale also was replaced shortly before halftime, while number eight Wycliff Palu also had to come off with a hamstring complaint.
The injuries add to the concerns over Digby Ioane and David Pocock while James O’Connor and captain James Horwill were given time off to try to recover.
Australia now plays Russia in Nelson on October 1st and is likely to finish second in the pool, meaning it could meet South Africa in the quarterfinals and then New Zealand in the semifinals should both sides make the final four.
Story by: Dhanjay Deo
McCaw set to celebrate 100th cap
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