All Blacks coach names strong side for Italy game

World Cup favourites New Zealand will parade their big guns in Saturday’s Pool C opener against Italy.

All Blacks coach Graham Henry has made a statement of intent by naming the likes of Dan Carter, Richie McCaw and Byron Kelleher for the clash in Marseille.

Guinness Premiership-bound trio Carl Hayman, Chris Jack and Luke McAlister also start as New Zealand look to get off to a winning start.

Team: M Muliaina; D Howlett, C Smith, L McAlister, S Sivivatu; D Carter, B Kelleher; T Woodcock, K Mealamu, C Hayman, C Jack, A Williams, J Collins, R McCaw (capt), R So’oialo.

Replacements: A Oliver, N Tialata, R Thorne, S Lauaki, B Leonard, A Mauger, L MacDonald.