KEY POINTS:
The return from injury of lock Keith Robinson and centre Isaia Toeava are key features of an All Blacks team fielding seven changes to face South Africa in the Tri-Nations rugby test at Jade Stadium in Christchurch on Saturday.
The backline has been overhauled from the side which lost 15-20 to Australia in Sydney, with wingers Doug Howlett and Sitiveni Sivivatu coming in for Rico Gear and Joe Rokocoko respectively.
Piri Weepu starts ahead of halfback Byron Kelleher while Toeava returns from a bruised shoulder injury to take the vexed centre berth.
His return sees a positional change, with Luke McAlister moving in one to his preferred second five-eighth spot and Aaron Mauger dropping from the 22.
Up front, Robinson has recovered from a calf muscle sustained minutes before the second test against France in Wellington last month and replaces Troy Flavell.
Reuben Thorne wins the blindside flanker role ahead of Jerry Collins while Keven Mealamu replaces Anton Oliver at hooker.
All Blacks:
Backs
Mils Muliaina, Doug Howlett, Isaia Toeava, Luke McAlister, Sitiveni Sivivatu, Daniel Carter, Piri Weepu.
Forwards
Rodney So'oialo, Richie McCaw (captain), Reuben Thorne, Chris Jack, Keith Robinson, Carl Hayman, Keven Mealamu, Tony Woodcock.
Reserves: Andrew Hore, Neemia Tialata, Jerry Collins, Chris Masoe, Brendon Leonard, Conrad Smith, Nick Evans
- NZPA
