All Blacks go for experience

The New Zealand selectors have gone for experience in Saturday's first Tri-Nations Test against South Africa at Auckland's Eden Park.

Full-back Mils Muliaina and second five-eighths Ma'a Nonu have been included in the starting XV ahead of emerging players Israel Dagg and Benson Stanley, who figured in the pre-tournament Tests.

Coach Graham Henry said the Springboks would be keen to start their Tri-Nations defence with a win against a Springboks side who have injury concerns at lock.

Injuries to Bakkies Botha and Danie Roussouw mean the tourists will not name their side until Thursday.

New Zealand: 15. Mils Muliaina, 14 Cory Jane, 13 Conrad Smith, 12 Ma'a Nonu, 11, Josevata Rokocoko, 10 Dan Carter, 9 Jimmy Cowan, 8 Kieran Read, 7 Richie McCaw (captain), 6 Jerome Kaino, 5 Tom Donnelly, 4 Brad Thorn, 3 Owen Franks, 2 Keven Mealamu, 1 Tony Woodcock.