MELBOURNE - The rotational selection policy of the All Blacks has been defended by coaching staff, who say they have moved away from the "era of stars" in the pursuit of a World Cup title.
As the controversy over former fullback Christian Cullen rages back home, his non-selection, with that of other household names such as Andrew Mehrtens and Taine Randell, was revealed when coaching co-ordinator Robbie Deans explained more changes to the team to play Tonga on Friday.
Deans said many of the New Zealand teams before his and coach John Mitchell's reign began two years ago relied on the ability of individuals.
"It was possibly a result of professionalism. We were only young in professionalism, we came through an era of stars, and we've really looked to create teamwork which allows individuals to thrive," Deans said.
Leading contenders England, France and Australia have fielded their perceived top line-ups for their first two games.
Conversely, the All Blacks made nine changes between their opening matches against Italy and Canada before making another nine alterations - including three positional - for Friday's test at Suncorp Stadium.
After this game every member of the original squad of 30 will have made a start apart from three injured players - halfback Byron Kelleher, second five-eighth Aaron Mauger and fullback Ben Blair, who has returned home.
This tournament represents a mini-version of the All Blacks' last two seasons.
During the early domestic tests, dubbed by Mitchell a "block-building" phase, they fielded a range of compositions before settling on their top line-up through the Tri-Nations series.
Deans indicated their strongest composition would be fielded in their final pool match, against Wales on Sunday week, as they sought continuity and momentum going into the quarter-finals.
He said Mitchell's team-based approach brought the best out of the players.
"We've allowed players to be men, to make their own choices because that's the way it is in game time.
"They've got to do it for themselves and they've got to learn to make the right choices and be accountable for their choices," Deans said.
"We're preparing the group the best we can for the ultimate challenge."
- NZPA
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