A thigh muscle injury has ruled Waikato centre Glen Robertson out of the New Zealand under-20 side to contest the junior rugby world championship final against England in Padova, Italy tomorrow morning (NZT).
The absence of Robertson has forced coach Mark Anscombe to shift winger Francis Saili into centre with Tasman's Mitchell Scott replacing Saili on the right wing. Canterbury's Rhys Llewellyn comes onto the bench.
New Zealand are seeking a fourth successive title and Anscombe said the team was ready for the challenge.
"We know that England are going to be tough to beat and we know we need to be on our game.
"England have a strong forward pack, fast outside backs and a very accurate goal kicker - that makes for a very strong combination. But we're ready and looking forward to this match," he said.
New Zealand: Beauden Barrett, Mitchell Scott, Francis Saili, Lima Sopoaga, Charles Piutau, Gareth Anscombe, TJ Perenara, Luke Whitelock (captain), Sam Cane, Brad Shields, Brodie Retallick, Steven Luatua, Ben Tameifuna, Codie Taylor, Solomona Sakalia. Reserves: Sefo Setefano, Michael Kainga, Dominic Bird, Carl Axtens, Brad Weber, Rhys Llewellyn, Waisake Naholo.
- NZPA
Rugby: One change to Baby Blacks
Photo / Getty Images
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