Team Naming Thursday - Bledisloe Edition Part 2

Photo courtesy of Stuff.co.nz/Sports

Another week and another Team Naming Thursday is upon us. 

The reinforcements have been sent in after last Saturdays game, with both Aaron Cruden and Beauden Barrett struck down with injuries and as a result Canterbury have provided Colin Slade and Tom Taylor into the mix to steady the All Black ship.

Cruden is expected to be out for the next 6 weeks with a posterior cruciate ligament strain, while BB will most likely be back in action for the Argentina game in a couple of weeks, September 7th. 

The number 10 injuries has brought up memories of a similar injury crisis during the Rugby World Cup 2011, with Stephen "Beaver" Donald jumping in at the last minute to famously save the day. 

This morning Shag has given the nod to Tom Taylor to wear the 10 jersey, with many surprised at his inclusion over 10 test capped Slade. However it seems that Taylor may have been picked due to his excellent goal kicking skills, and his mental toughness. His cool, calm and collected demeanor should help him slot right into the backline hopefully with as much ease as possible. 

Another enforced change is Brodie Retallick coming in for the injured Luke Romano with Wellington's Jeremy Thrush onto the bench as cover.  

All Blacks

1. Tony Woodcock

2. Andrew Hore

3. Owen Franks

4. Brodie Retallick

5. Sam Whitelock

6. Steven Luatua

7. Richie McCaw (Captain)

8. Kieran Read

9. Aaron Smith

10. Tom Taylor

11. Julian Savea

12. Ma'a Nonu

13. Conrad Smith

14. Ben Smith

15. Israel Dagg

Reserves

16. Dane Coles

17. Wyatt Crockett

18. Charlie Faumuina

19. Jeremy Thrush

20. Sam Cane

21. Tawera Kerr-Barlow

22. Colin Slade
23. Charles Piutau

As always I am counting down the minutes and hours before kick off on Saturday night. At least we have some ITM Cup to fill in the time between now and then.

What do you think of the team?

All Black everything!