Henry gambles on eight All Black newcomers

EIGHT newcomers have been named by the All Blacks coach Graham Henry in a bold selection policy for the upcoming European tour and a gruelling 2005 season.

The former Lions boss has raised some eyebrows in New Zealand with the 32-strong squad for their tour next month of Italy, Wales and France which finishes against the Barbarians.

Interest focused on Henry’s approach to scrum-half and fly-half, as a trio who have filled those play-making roles for several seasons will not tour.