Rugby: All Blacks make three changes for Wallabies clash

The All Blacks have brought Jerry Collins (L), Anton Oliver (C) and Byron Kelleher into their starting line-up. Photos / NZ Herald

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Byron Kelleher, Jerry Collins and Anton Oliver are the three new starting faces in the All Blacks side named today to face Australia in the decisive Tri-Nations/Bledisloe Cup rugby test at Eden Park here on Saturday.

Halfback Kelleher comes in for Piri Weepu in the only change to the backline which struggled for fluidity in last Saturday's 33-6 defeat of South Africa in Christchurch.

Winger Joe Rokocoko retains his place ahead of the injured Sitiveni Sivivatu, who was originally named to start at Jade Stadium but hurt himself in the warmups.

The switches in the pack see Collins replace Reuben Thorne on the blindside flank and hooker Anton Oliver start ahead of Keven Mealamu, who will join Thorne on the reserve bench.

A notable selection is that of Luke McAlister ahead of the experienced Aaron Mauger at second five-eighth in what coach Graham Henry has described as his "strongest team".

ALL BLACKS

Backs
Mils Muliaina, Doug Howlett, Isaia Toeava, Luke McAlister, Joe Rokocoko, Daniel Carter, Byron Kelleher.

Forwards
Rodney So'oialo, Richie McCaw (captain), Jerry Collins, Chris Jack, Keith Robinson, Carl Hayman, Anton Oliver, Tony Woodcock.

Reserves: Keven Mealamu, Neemia Tialata, Reuben Thorne, Chris Masoe, Brendon Leonard, Aaron Mauger, Nick Evans.

- NZPA