All Blacks: Few changes expected for England test

Adam Thomson could get his first start for the All Blacks on Saturday. Photo / Mark Mitchell

Look for continuity from the All Blacks selectors when the team to face England at Eden Park on Saturday is revealed this afternoon.

It is understood there will be few changes as the All Blacks look to build on their positive start to the season made against Ireland last week.

Rodney So'oialo could return to No 8 with Adam Thomson given a run at blindside flanker, while Conrad Smith and Ma'a Nonu should get another chance in midfield.

New All Blacks centre Richard Kahui is eyeing up a spot in the 22 at Eden Park, although it seems unlikely that he will push Smith out of the starting 15.

Kahui watched Smith impress against Ireland and says just being in the squad now is not enough.

He says his challenge is to push Smith and Nonu to be better players and hopefully get a chance himself.

He says he did not expect to be in the All Blacks a couple of years ago but now all he wants to do is play.

The All Blacks team will be named at 2pm with England set to be announced at 5pm.

- NEWSTALK ZB, NZ HERALD STAFF