Wednesday, July 14, 2010

All Blacks name Weepu, Ranger to start

http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/all-blacks/3920777/All-Blacks-name-Weepu-Ranger-to-start


Piri Weepu and Rene Ranger have been handed starting roles in the All Blacks team to play the Springboks in Wellington this Saturday.

Weepu comes off the bench to start at halfback in his 40th test, and Ranger, who made his test debut off the bench last month against Wales in Hamilton, gets his first test start on the left wing.

On the bench, Jimmy Cowan has recovered from his abdominal strain, while Israel Dagg, who played against Ireland and Wales, provides outside back cover.

''We have stuck with the majority of players who played so well in last week's win at Eden Park and they are ready for what will be another major contest,'' All Blacks coach Graham Henry said.

"The players know that they will face a different, more physical Springboks side.''

Joe Rokocoko (strained hamstring) and Richard Kahui (shoulder) were not considered for selection. Kahui will see a specialist on Monday for a further assessment on the extent of his injury

''It's hugely disappointing for Richard who has played extremely well for the All Blacks and contributed greatly to the team so far this year and he will be sorely missed.

''We will await advice from the medical team on how long he will be out for.''

The team is: Mills Muliaina, Cory Jane, Conrad Smith, Ma'a Nonu, Rene Ranger, Daniel Carter, Piri Weepu, Kieran Read, Richie McCaw, Jerome Kaino, Tom Donnelly, Brad Thorn, Owen Franks, keven Mealamu, Tony Woodcock. Reserves: Corey Flynn, Ben Franks, Sam Whitelock, Liam Messam, Jimmy Cowan, Aaron Cruden, Israel Dagg.


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