LONDON – All Blacks Coach Steve Hansen has named a very strong side to open their World Cup defence against Argentina at Wembley on Sunday.
Inspirational captain Richie McCaw will lead the team into battle in his record 143rd international game alongside Kieran Read and Jerome Kaino who makes his return to the side in place of flank Victor Vito.
Dane Coles will start the match after his tremendous form in the Rugby Championship and will line up with Tony Woodcock and Owen Franks in the front row with Keven Mealamu coming off the bench. Brodie Retallick and Sam Whitelock will also turn out once again in the 4 and 5 shirts respectively.
The idea that Hansen has a very good idea of his strongest XV is reflected in the selection of his backs with is unchanged from the final game of the Bledisloe Cup.
All Blacks side to play Argentina
1. Tony Woodcock
2. Dane Coles
3. Owen Franks
4. Brodie Retallick
5. Samuel Whitelock
6. Jerome Kaino
7. Richie McCaw (c)
8. Kieran Read
9. Aaron Smith
10. Daniel Carter
11. Julian Savea
12. Ma’a Nonu
13. Conrad Smith
14. Nehe Milner-Skudder
15. Ben Smith
Replacements
16. Keven Mealamu 17. Wyatt Crockett 18. Charlie Faumuina 19. Victor Vito 20. Sam Cane 21. TJ Perenara 22. Beauden Barrett 23. Sonny Bill Williams