Hosea Gear will be back in the All Blacks for this weekend's match against South Africa. Photo / Greg Bowker
Wing Hosea Gear and big lock Brodie Retallick are the only changes to the All Blacks starting XV for Sunday morning's test against South Africa in Soweto.
Gear replaces Wellington's Julian Savea who drops out of the matchday 22, while Retallick comes in for Cantabrian Luke Romano who moves to
the bench.
Other changes to the bench are prop Ben Franks, loose forward Adam Thomson and outside back Tamati Ellison, who replace Charlie Faumuina, Sam Cane and Ben Smith respectively.
All Blacks coach Steve Hansen said: "We are in no doubt how big the challenge is for the team this weekend but it is one we are looking forward to as it will be a real test of our resolve and character.
"South Africa are coming off a big win against Australia and will be playing in front of their home crowd at Soweto so it's going to be a huge test match."
