World Rugby News > New Zealand
McCaw leads All Blacks – Barbarians v New Zealand teams
The All Blacks have made 13 changes, with only captain Richie McCaw and back Cory Jane remaining from the team that thrashed France 39-12 last weekend.
For the BaBaas, Wales centre Jamie Roberts starts and other Lions Leigh Halfpenny and Andy Powell are among the replacements.
Jamie Roberts
Springbok lock Victor Matfield will captain a Barbarians side containing 925 caps. Matfield heads a seven-strong South African contingent that includes also the uncapped WP Nel. Bryan Habana starts on the left wing while All Black Joe Rokocoko has been handed the number 14 jersey against his national team-mates.
Australia supply four players to the starting line-up, including skipper Rocky Elsom and fly-half Matt Giteau.
Barbarians coach Nick Mallett said: (quote) We have the benefit of a full week together ahead of the match. “Knowing the talent that has been assembled among the 22 players, we expect to be very competitive and give the All Blacks and the Twickenham crowd a real taste of Barbarian rugby at its best. (end quote)
Barbarian president Micky Steele-Bodger said: (quote) Matches between the Barbarians and the All Blacks have always had a special resonance. The classic game in 1973 remains an obvious memory for everyone and this match will be the 10th fixture between us since we first met at Cardiff Arms Park in 1954. We are particularly pleased that several stars who have played for us before are returning to represent the club and we also appreciate the gesture by Cardiff Blues in allowing three of their Lions to accept invitations to play in what promises to be yet another mouth-watering match. (end quote)
All Blacks coach Graham Henry said of his selection: (quote) It gives them one more chance on this tour to show their skills and push for All Blacks selection in the future. A match against the Barbarians is one of rugby’s great traditions and our players are really looking forward to this match. (end quote)
Teams
Barbarians: Drew Mitchell (Australia); Joe Rokocoko (New Zealand), Jaque Fourie (South Africa), Jamie Roberts (Wales), Bryan Habana (South Africa); Matt Giteau (Australia), Fourie du Preez (South Africa); Salvatore Perugini (Italy), Bismarck du Plessis (South Africa), W P Nel (uncapped), Carlo del Fava (Italy), Victor Matfield (South Africa, captain), Rocky Elsom (Australia), Schalk Burger (South Africa), George Smith (Australia).
Replacements: Stephen Moore (Australia), Tendai Mtawarira (South Africa), Quintin Geldenhuys (Italy), Andy Powell (Wales), Will Genia (Australia), Morne Steyn (South Africa), Leigh Halfpenny (Wales).
New Zealand: Cory Jane, Ben Smith, Tamati Ellison, Luke McAlister, Zac Guildford, Stephen Donald, Brendon Leonard; Wyatt Crockett, Corey Flynn, John Afoa, Jason Eaton, Anthony Boric, Liam Messam, Richie McCaw, Rodney So’oialo.
Replacements: Andrew Hore, Neemia Tialata, Adam Thomson, Tanerau Latimer, Jimmy Cowan, Mike Delany, Sitiveni Sivivatu.
