WELLINGTON, 19 July 2006 — New Zealand coach Graham Henry recalled former captain Reuben Thorne in one of eight changes for Saturday’s Tri-Nations clash against South Africa.
Thorne, who has not played a Test for the All Blacks since the 2003 World Cup, replaced Jerry Collins at blindside flanker as Henry continues his policy of resting key players.
Lock Ali Williams replaced Jason Eaton, prop Neemia Tialata comes in for Tony Woodcock, who injured his shoulder in the 32-12 victory over Australia 10 days ago, and hooker Anton Oliver was preferred to Keven Mealamu.
“The changes help to keep all of our players physically and mentally sharp,” Henry told reporters yesterday. “We hope that can provide an edge for us against South Africa this weekend and for the Tri-Nations series as a whole.” Henry has also made four changes to his back line.
Doug Howlett replaced Rico Gear on the right wing and Scott Hamilton will play his first home test on the left wing instead of Joe Rokocoko. Sam Tuitupou was named at inside center ahead of Aaron Mauger and Piri Weepu comes in for Byron Kelleher at scrumhalf.
Mils Muliaina retained his place at outside center after an encouraging performance against Australia. Henry has been testing several combinations as he seeks to develop depth in his squad for the 2007 World Cup in France.
“We were encouraged by the way we played against Australia and we hope to maintain form while using more of the talent we have available in the squad,” Henry added.
South Africa, who were thrashed 49-0 by Australia last Saturday, are expected to name their side today.
Utility Butch James has been called into the squad to solidify the inside backs after Australia’s Stephen Larkham and Matt Giteau targeted flyhalf Jaco Van der Westhuyzen in Brisbane and made several line breaks.
Lock Danie Roussouw has been ruled out after suffering a torn hamstring against the Wallabies. He is expected to be sidelined for up to eight weeks.
New Zealand: 15-Leon MacDonald; 14-Doug Howlett, 13-Mils Muliaina, 12-Sam Tuitupou, 11-Scott Hamilton; 10-Dan Carter, 9-Piri Weepu; 8-Rodney So’oialo, 7-Richie McCaw (captain), 6-Reuben Thorne, 5-Ali Williams, 4-Chris Jack, 3-Carl Hayman, 2-Anton Oliver, 1-Neemia Tialata.
Replacements: 16-Andrew Hore, 17-Greg Somerville, 18-Greg Rawlinson, 19-Chris Masoe, 20-Jimmy Cowan, 21-Luke McAlister, 22-Isaia Toeava.
Injured Wallaby Prop Young on Verge of Quitting Rugby
In Sydney, Australian rugby’s most experienced prop Bill Young said yesterday a neck injury will probably force him to quit the game, according to a media report.
“At this stage, it’s probably highly unlikely I’ll play again,” 31-year-old Young told the Canberra Times newspaper.
“I’m just weighing up my options and I’ll wait until I talk with the ARU (Australian Rugby Union) before I make any final decision.” He said he planned to meet ARU officials this week to determine whether his injury was career-ending.
Young, the Wallabies’ second-most capped loosehead prop with 46 internationals, has been troubled by the chronic neck injury this year. He sought a third and final doctor’s opinion this week after experiencing numbness in his left hand and arm.
“I’ve got problems that need fixing in my neck and if I don’t then I could end up with some permanent disability in my left hand,” he said. “That’s their (doctors’) concern. They’re obviously very cautious and very concerned about my health.” Young has not played since playing with the neck injury through the ACT Brumbies’ Super 14 season.
