Two to make All Blacks debut

New Zealand coach Graham Henry has included two uncapped players in his starting line-up for Saturday’s Test match against Italy in Rome’s Flaminio stadium.

In what will be the All Blacks’ first Test in the Italian capital, Henry has handed debuts to loosehead prop Saimone Taumoepeau and centre Conrad Smith.

There are also a couple of new faces on the New Zealand bench with Steven Bates and Jimmy Cowan named amongst the replacements for a match Henry insists his charges are itching to play.

“We are training with a lot of enthusiasm. We are looking forward to the game,” said Henry, who believes the Italians will be no pushovers after watching their 51-6 thrashing of Canada on Saturday.

“We were fortunate enough to see them play at the weekend against Canada. I have a seen a notable transformation. They played well and got a positive result.”

New Zealand, who thrashed Italy 70-7 in the previous meeting between the two sides at the 2003 World Cup, also welcome back veteran hooker Anton Oliver following an 18-month absence.

Henry does have a few injury concerns, however.

Replacements Luke McAlister and Corey Flynn are struggling with hamstring and stomach muscle strains, respectively, while flanker Jono Gibbes may have to be sent home from the tour after suffering a leg injury in training.

Henry said of Gibbes: “His condition is not good. He pulled a calf muscle in yesterday’s training.

"We are still evaluating whether or not he will be all right for the tour. We have someone on standby just in case.”

With regards to the All Blacks’ traditional pre-match ritual, Henry added: “Rico Gear has shown a lot of leadership in that area and I think he is likely to guide the Haka.”

After Italy, New Zealand take on Wales and France later this month before facing the Barbarians at Twickenham on December 5.

New Zealand team to play Italy:

Mils Muliaina; Rico Gear, Conrad Smith, Tana Umaga (captain), Joe Rokocoko; Daniel Carter, Byron Kelleher; Saimone Taumoepeau, Anton Oliver, Carl Hayman, Chris Jack, Norm Maxwell, Jerry Collins, Richie McCaw, Mose Tuiali’i.

Replacements: Corey Flynn/Keven Mealamu, Greg Somerville, Ali Williams, Steven Bates, Jimmy Cowan, Luke McAlister/Aaron Mauger, Ma’a Nonu.