NZ under-19 make three changes for final

New Zealand have made three changes to their team to take on Australia in the final of the International Rugby Board under-19 World Cup in Dubain on Saturday morning NZ time.

Canterbury's John Legg starts at halfback ahead of Daniel Devereaux, Canterbury flanker Mike Coman takes over from Otago's Hoani Matenga and Canterbury prop Shane Cleaver will start in place of Wellington's Adrian Barone in the changes from the team who beat England in the semifinals on Tuesday morning.

Talented Waikato first five-eighth Trent Renata could also be called in as he continues to battle an ankle injury picked up early in the tournament.

If Renata is ruled out, Canterbury utility back Colin Slade will start in the No 10 jersey and Tane Puki of Southland will take over at fullback for the match at Dubai Exiles Rugby Football Club.

Slade is the tournament's leading points scorer with 58 points from four tries, 16 conversions and two penalties.

Crowley said his side's narrow win over Australia in pool play last week would not influence the way New Zealand approached the final.

"Previous results don't come into play in a final. We are certainly aware of Australia's ability, but at the same time we have worked really hard to get to where we are now," he said.

"Our player depth has played a big role in our road to the final. It certainly won't be an easy match and it will require us to be on top of our game from kick off."

The game starts at 4am NZ time.

New Zealand under-19 team:
Colin Slade/Tane Puki, Armyn Sanders, Tim Bateman, Male Sa'u, Greg Tweddle, Trent Renata/Slade , John Legg, Victor Vito (captain), Scott Fuglistaller, Mike Coman, Chris Middleton, Chris Smith, Jonathan Direen, Mason Pomare, Shane Cleaver.

Reserves (from):
Nathan Fotuali'i, Ben Afeaki, Adrian Barone, James Broadhurst, Piula Faasalele, Hoani Matenga, Dean Brunsdon, Daniel Devereaux, Gareth Goodin, Tane Puki, Tua Saseve.

- NZPA