All Blacks recall trio

Brad Thorn, Sitiveni Sivivatu and captain Richie McCaw have been recalled to the New Zealand starting line-up for the Tri-Nations decider against Australia in Brisbane on Saturday.

The trio are restored to the team after sitting out the 101-14 win over Samoa in a one-off Test in New Plymouth last week.

The recalls mean the same team that started the 19-0 win over South Africa in Cape Town last month will take the field at Suncorp Stadium, where they face a Wallabies team looking to recover from a 53-8 loss to the world champions last time out.

New Zealand coach Graham Henry said: “It’s a very competitive Tri-Nations series this year.

“Every match has been more important than the one before it and this Test decides the championship, so we’re trying to make sure we get our preparation exactly right.

“Australia’s last result was out of character and we expect a real battle.”

The only injury concern is to reserve prop John Afoa who is carrying a shoulder problem and will be replaced by Wellington’s Neemia Tialata if not fit.

New Zealand team: Mils Muliaina, Richard Kahui, Conrad Smith, Ma’a Nonu, Sitiveni Sivivatu, Dan Carter, Jimmy Cowan; Tony Woodcock, Andrew Hore, Greg Somerville, Brad Thorn, Ali Williams, Jerome Kaino, Richie McCaw (captain), Rodney So’oialo.

Reserves: Keven Mealamu, John Afoa/Neemia Tialata, Anthony Boric, Adam Thomson, Piri Weepu, Stephen Donald, Isaia Toeava.