Trio set to make All Black debuts

INJURIES and rich Super 14 form have prodded All Blacks coach Graham Henry into picking three new caps for the starting team for the Irish Test on Saturday, along with three more on the reserves bench.

“We have picked experienced All Blacks together with those players who have been in form throughout the Sport Super 14 and deserve their opportunity at Test level,” Henry said.

Loosehead prop Ben Franks, 26, makes his Test debut with his 22-year-old brother and Canterbury Crusaders’ teammate Owen in the front row, having got his first start for the All Blacks against Munster in 2008.

Israel Dagg has been named at fullback for the one-off Test in New Plymouth after shining for the Otago Highlanders in the Super 14 and Auckland Blues back Benson Stanley will play at inside centre. The side is captained by Richie McCaw.

Among the three new All Blacks in reserve is 21-year-old fly-half Aaron Cruden, who has enjoyed a stellar rise since recovering from cancer in 2008. Cruden is joined on the bench by Wellington Hurricanes teammate and loose forward Victor Vito and Crusaders lock Sam Whitelock.

Missing through injury are backs Sitiveni Sivivatu, Ma’a Nonu, Isaia Toeava, Mike Delany and Stephen Donald, locks Jason Eaton and Ali Williams, and hooker Andrew Hore. But Henry said the new players deserved their chance.

“Most of the players selected as ‘new’ players would have been selected anyway,” he said yesterday.

McCaw will skipper the team in his 81st test and insists their attitude must be perfect against Ireland.

“The different mindset is about a one-off test against Ireland and that’s it. You get one go then you don’t see the Irish again for six months. That brings the extra edge and intensity in tests.”

McCaw agreed the new players had to be allowed to play because that’s how they earned their selection.

“That’s what they are good at but if it is something that puts you under pressure you have to weigh that up,” the captain added.