Rugby: Wellington look to ABs centre pairing for final

Wellington have the option of using the All Black centre pairing of Ma'a Nonu and Conrad Smith for the Air NZ Cup final against Canterbury. Photo / Getty Images

Wellington look set to make changes to their midfield for Saturday night's Air New Zealand Cup final against Canterbury in the capital.

Assistant coach Andre Bell says they have plenty of options but they have taken a long look at the All Blacks' No 1 pairing of Ma'a Nonu and Conrad Smith.

He says that combination has been proven and they might want to reward them and see how they front.

There are also question marks as to who will make up the Wellington loose-forward trio.

Bell says they want to limit the impact of All Blacks captain Richie McCaw and that starts with the make-up of their loose-forwards.

He says it will not be an easy decision with Rodney So'oialo, Chris Masoe, Serge Lilo and Thomas Waldrom vying for the three spots.

Piri Weepu will again call the shots from first five-eigth.

Bell says Daniel Kirkpatrick and Fa'atonu Fili could do the job but Weepu is in form and they are hoping he will lead the way.

Alby Mathewson will wear the No 9 shirt for Wellington with the team to be confirmed tomorrow.

- NEWSTALK ZB