All Blacks mix it up for World Cup opener

A number of New Zealand fringe players have been given their chance to impress along with a solid mix of experience for Friday’s World Cup opener against Tonga.

The likes of 40-Test plus All Blacks Tony Woodcock, Andrew Hore, Brad Thorn, Ali Williams, Jerome Kaino, captain Richie McCaw, Jimmy Cowan, Dan Carter and Ma’a Nonu have all been included in coach Graham Henry’s starting XV.