All Blacks: SBW, Mealamu return for Welsh test

Sonny Bill Williams and Keven Mealamu have been named in the All Blacks' starting lineup to face Wales. Photo / Getty Images

Keven Mealamu and Sonny Bill Williams, two players who have gained the most attention for differing reasons on the Grand Slam tour, have been named in the All Blacks line-up to face Wales in Cardiff on Sunday morning.

Mealamu returns to the starting line up after receiving a two week ban for a headbutt on England captain Lewis Moody on November 7.

The Auckland hooker was originally handed a four week ban which ended his tour before an appeal saw it reduced by two weeks.

League convert Williams earns his fourth test cap and his third start of the tour.

Six changes have been made to the side that beat Ireland 38-18 last weekend, three in the forwards and three in the backline.

Isaia Toeava has earned another start on the wing, replacing Cory Jane, while Williams slots into second five-eighth in place of Ma'a Nonu.

Williams will again partner Conrad Smith as the All Blacks backline replicates the same one that beat Scotland 49-3 two weeks ago.

Halfback Jimmy Cowan regains a starting spot, with Andy Ellis moving to the bench, while lock Sam Whitelock comes in for the injured Tom Donnelly. Brad Thorn returns to the lineup after pulling out of the starting XV last weekend.

A win over Wales at Millennium Stadium on Sunday will secure the All Blacks' fourth Grand Slam in their history.

All Blacks team:
Team: Mils Muliaina, Isaia Toeava, Conrad Smith, Sonny Bill Williams, Hosea Gear, Daniel Carter, Jimmy Cowan, Kieran Read, Richie McCaw (captain), Jerome Kaino, Sam Whitelock, Brad Thorn, Owen Franks, Keven Mealamu, Tony Woodcock. Reserves: Andrew Hore, John Afoa, Anthony Boric, Daniel Braid, Andy Ellis, Stephen Donald, Ma'a Nonu.

- Herald online