KEY POINTS:
Former All Black Troy Flavell gets an opportunity to showcase his rugby skills on the blindside flank when Air NZ Cup leaders Auckland host Taranaki on Friday night.
On stand-by for New Zealand's World Cup campaign, Flavell will revert to his former position from lock when the unbeaten Aucklanders strive to extend Taranaki's dismal start to the season at Eden Park.
Flavell takes over from Angus Macdonald, who broke a hand against Southland last weekend.
Macdonald was expected to be sidelined for at least a month, though the resources available to Auckland coach Pat Lam should ensure his void is easily filled.
Lam has totally revamped his loose forward trio following the 44-18 victory in Invercargill.
No 8 Brad Mika has dropped to the bench for Jerome Kaino, while Daniel Braid will start at openside for Onosa'i Tololima-Auva'a.
Jay Williams takes Flavell's spot in the second row while Tom McCartney starts at hooker for the first time since his loan spell at North Harbour was ended by Derren Witcombe's retirement.
Saimone Taumoepeau takes over at loosehead prop from Nick White.
The backline is more settled with the only alteration seeing first choice pivot Isa Nacewa starting in place of Lachie Munro.
The game starts at 7.35pm.
Auckland: Brent Ward, Benson Stanley, Ben Atiga, Sam Tuitupou, David Smith, Isa Nacewa, Taniela Moa, Jerome Kaino, Daniel Braid, Troy Flavell, Jay Williams, Kurtis Haiu, John Afoa, Tom McCartney, Saimone Taumoepeau.
Reserves: Nick White, Chris Heard, Stan Haukinima, Bradley Mika, Onosa'i Tololima-Auva'a, Grayson Hart, Lachie Munro.
- NZPA
