All Black squad named for Springbok clash

The All Blacks have named the team that will head to Soccer City to take on the Springboks in Saturday’s Rugby Championship clash.

The team features two changes from last week’s team that took on the Pumas in Argentina. Hosea Gear and Brodie Retallick come into the starting lineup for Julian Savea and Luke Romano respectively.

Romano then moves to the bench, who is joined by prop Ben Franks, loose forward Adam Thomson and outside back Tamati Ellison, who replace Charlie Faumuina, Sam Cane and Ben Smith respectively.

All Blacks Head Coach Steve Hansen said: “We are in no doubt how big the challenge is for the team this weekend but it is one we are looking forward to as it will be a real test of our resolve and character.”

“South Africa are coming off a big win against Australia and will be playing in front of their home crowd at Soweto so it’s going to be a huge Test match,” he added.

Starting XV:

1. Tony Woodcock (90)
2. Andrew Hore (70)
3. Owen Franks (39)
4. Brodie Retallick (8)
5. Samuel Whitelock (33)
6. Liam Messam (15)
7. Richie McCaw – captain (111)
8. Kieran Read (43)
9. Aaron Smith (8)
10. Daniel Carter (90)
11. Hosea Gear (11)
12. Ma’a Nonu (71)
13. Conrad Smith (61)
14. Cory Jane (36)
15. Israel Dagg (20)

Reserves:

16. Keven Mealamu (98)
17. Ben Franks (20)
18. Luke Romano (6)
19. Adam Thomson (27)
20. Piri Weepu (64)
21. Aaron Cruden (16)
22. Tamati Ellison (2)