Conrad Smith to start for Wellington

Conrad Smith's rehabilitation appears to be complete.

The injured All Blacks centre has been named to start at centre for Wellington in this Sunday's Air New Zealand Cup match against North Harbour In Albany.

He takes over the number 13 jersey from injured skipper Tana Umaga.

It is Smith's first start in first class rugby since early in this year's Super 14, when he broke his leg playing for the Hurricanes. He came off the bench in Wellington's previous match against Bay of Plenty two weeks ago.

Wellington coach John Plumtree has made another six changes to the side that played the Steamers.

Ross Filipo is over his injury worries and will start at lock, with Luke Andrews moved to blindside flanker in place of Jerry Collins, who is back with the All Blacks. Chris Masoe is also on test duty handing Serge Lilo a start at openside flanker while John Schwalger is at prop in place of Neemia Tialata.

In the backs, Nigel Hunt has been given the nod at halfback ahead of Jason Spice, and Tane Tu'ipulotu is at centre in place of Tamati Ellison.

Wellington:

Joe McDonnell, Luke Mahoney, John Schwalger, Ross Kennedy, Ross Filipo, Luke Andrews, Serge Lilo, Thomas Waldrom, Nigel Hunt, Jimmy Gopperth, Cory Jane, Tane Tu'ipulotu, Conrad Smith, Lome Fa'atau and Shannon Paku.

Reserves:

Mo Schwalger, Kuramate Tuirirangi, Victor Vito, Ben Herring, Jason Spice, Alby Mathewson, Earl Va'a.

- NEWSTALK ZB