Two like-minded teams will clash in what should be an entertaining, fast-paced game played at Etihad Stadium (Melbourne) this saturday. Talk about the sub-standard turf shouldn’t change their mindset as both coaches have named strong line ups, ready to run the ball.
Robbie Deans has strengthened his front row, starting with Stephen Moore, his ruggedness and experience will be invaluable. Although Quade Cooper has been lost due to suspension Matt Giteau will form a formidable combination with Berrick Barnes, both players have the ability to switch positions and both have the class to control a game from the pivot.
David Pocock, Rocky Elsom and Richard Brown were standouts against the Boks, their match-up with Ritchie McCaw, Jerome Kaino and Kieran Read should be as good as it gets in world rugby. Both sides seem to have adapted to the new rule interpretations, electing to keep possession of the ball and attacking from most parts of the field. Tight forwards like Nathan Sharpe and Tom Donnelly are picking up ‘go forward’ points which has added another dimension to their game.
Australia
15. Adam Ashley-Cooper
14. James O’Connor
13. Rob Horne
12. Berrick Barnes
11. Drew Mitchell
10. Matt Giteau
9. Will Genia
8. Richard Brown
7. David Pocock
6. Rocky Elsom
5. Nathan Sharpe
4. Dean Mumm
3. Salesi Ma’afu
2. Stephen Moore
1. Benn Robinson
Reserves
16. Saia Faingaa, 17. James Slipper, 18. Rob Simmons, 19. Matt Hodgson, 20. Luke Burgess, 21. Anthony Faingaa, 22. Kurtley Beale.
New Zealand
15. Mils Muliaina
14. Cory Jane
13. Conrad Smith
12. Ma’a Nonu
11. Joe Rokocoko
10. Dan Carter
9. Jimmy Cowan
8. Kieran Read
7. Richie McCaw
6. Jerome Kaino
5. Tom Donnelly
4. Brad Thorn
3. Owen Franks
2. Keven Mealamu
1. Tony Woodcock.
Reserves
16. Corey Flynn, 17. Ben Franks, 18. Sam Whitelock, 19. Victor Vito, 20. Piri Weepu, 21. Aaron Cruden, 22. Israel Dagg