All Blacks Side to Play Australia!

The All Blacks have named their side to play the Wallabies on Thursday morning with a few enforced changes required.

Firstly, the Ma'a Nonu/Conrad Smith record breaking partnership will be split up with one of its key protagonists starting his 6 month sabbatical from rugby. However, while one Smith is out, another is to come in with Ben Smith slotting into centre.

Ben Smith has a challenge ahead according to former All Black wing turned centre, Tana Umaga, but given the Otago back's form this season, expect him to slot into what is his favoured position with relative ease.

Cory Jane will take Ben Smith's place on the wing and with Owen Franks and Dan Carter still injured, expect Charlie Faumuina and Aaron Cruden to fill their places.

Jeremy Thrush will get his first start in black

Jeremy Thrush also gets his first start in black with Brodie Retallick on the bench.

So here's the most likely squad -
1.Tony Woodcock
2.Keven Mealamu
3.Charlie Faumuina
4.Jeremy Thrush
5.Sam Whitelock
6.Liam Messam
7.Richie McCaw (captain)
8.Kieran Read
9.Aaron Smith
10.Aaron Cruden
11.Julian Savea
12.Ma'a Nonu
13.Ben Smith
14.Cory Jane
15.Israel Dagg

16.Dane Coles
17.Wyatt Crockett
18.Ben Franks
19.Brodie Retallick
20.Sam Cane
21.Tawera Kerr-Barlow
22.Beauden Barrett
23.Tom Taylor