Team Naming Thursday - Bledisloe edition

Photo courtesy of Yahoo Sport

The first Bledisloe test match always brings out the nerves, anticipation and excitement that can be expected with any New Zealand vs Australia clash. As always the team naming is heavily scrutinized and pondered by the couch coaches.

Steve 'Shag' Hansen has stuck to his usual coaching method by playing a fairly tried and true All Black team but still with youth and inexperience.

Richie McCaw returns to Captain the side in his first run on test match post sabbatical  Its commonly known amongst supporters and media alike that Richie will most likely only see 60 minutes and then heir apparent Sam Cane will most likely take the field. 

I am however most excited to see Crusaders number 12 Ryan Crotty given a spot on the bench after the injury to Francis Saili during the lead up to the game. He has been one of the most consistent players throughout the last few Super Rugby seasons and its fantastic he has been given a chance at the highest level.

All Blacks

1. Tony Woodcock

2. Andrew Hore

3. Owen Franks

4. Luke Romano

5. Sam Whitelock

6. Steven Luatua

7. Richie McCaw (Capt)

8. Kieran Read

9. Aaron Smith

10. Aaron Cruden

11. Julian Savea

12. Conrad Smith

13. Ma'a Nonu

14. Ben Smith

15. Israel Dagg

Reserves

16. Keven Mealamu

17. Ben Franks

18. Charlie Faumuina

19. Brodie Retallick

20. Sam Cane

21. Beauden Barrett

22. Tawera Kerr-Barlow

23. Ryan Crotty

Not long to go now.

All Black everything.