Milner-Scudder to make debut against Wallabies

WELLINGTON – Hurricanes winger Nehe Milner-Scudder will make his All Black debut after being named in the starting squad to play the Wallabies in Sydney on Saturday.

The change indicates a significantly different backline to the one that emerged victorious in the 27-20 win over the Springboks. Milner-Scudder replaces Ben Smith on the right wing and Smith moves to the back in place of Israel Dagg. Julian Savea comes in for Charles Piutau on the left wing and Dan Carter comes in for Lima Sopoaga. Sonny Bill Williams comes in for Ma’a Nony which is the only forced change to the backline.

Up front, Luke Romano comes in for James Broadhurst and Jerome Kaino fits in at the back in place of Liam Messam.

The big news however, is Milner-Scudder’s selection which is indicative of the willingness of Steve Hansen to bring in fresh faces for big matches in preparation for next month’s Rugby World Cup.

The Taihape-born Turbo tore up this year’s Super Rugby and few will deny that the 24 year old deserves his chance in black. However it will be interesting to see how he deals with the pressures that come with test rugby as the Wallabies will definitely be testing his defensive capabilities.

All Black side to face Australia

15. Ben Smith
14. Nehe Milner-Skudder
13. Conrad Smith
12. Sonny Bill Williams
11. Julian Savea
10. Daniel Carter
9. Aaron Smith
8. Kieran Read
7. Richie McCaw (c)
6. Jerome Kaino
5. Luke Romano
4. Brodie Retallick
3. Owen Franks
2. Dane Coles
1. Tony Woodcock

Reserves: 16. Codie Taylor 17. Ben Franks 18. Nepo Laulala 19. Sam Whitelock 20. Sam Cane 21. TJ Perenara 22. Beauden Barrett 23. Malakai Fekitoa.