Veterans Woodcock and Smith return for Pumas clash

AUCKLAND (AFP) –

Veteran World Cup winning duo prop Tony Woodcock, pictured in 2011, and centre Conrad Smith were among five changes to the All Blacks side that beat Australia last time named Wednesday to start against Argentina in their Rugby Championship test in Wellington on Saturday.

Veteran World Cup winning duo prop Tony Woodcock and centre Conrad Smith were among five changes to the All Blacks side that beat Australia last time named Wednesday to start against Argentina in their Rugby Championship test in Wellington on Saturday.

Aside from the return of Woodcock and Smith flanker Victor Vito and lock Brodie Retallick get starts with Liam Messam and Samuel Whitelock moving to the bench while Julian Savea wins his third cap on the wing in place of Hosea Gear.

Prop Charlie Faumuina, looks set to make his All Blacks debut as he replaces Bne Franks on the bench.

All Blacks Head Coach Steve Hansen said that despite the victory over arch rivals Australia last time out there were still areas they needed to improve on.

“We have been working on constantly improving our game and that has again been our focus this week,” said Hansen, who stepped up from assistant coach to the top job after Graham Henry stepped down following the World Cup win last year.

“We were happy with our intensity and attitude in the last Test against Australia, but not so happy with our execution when we didn’t get the decision-making process right on occasions, so we are looking for improvement in that area this weekend.”

Hansen said the All Blacks were under no illusion of how tough the Test would be against a side they have never lost against in 14 tests since 1985 and having beaten them 33-10 the last time they met in last year’s World Cup quarter-final.

“It is going to be very physical, especially up front where they are traditionally very strong,” said the former Wales handler.

“We also have immense respect for their backline abilities plus they have one of the best defensive structures in modern rugby.

“They are always looking to work as a unit to shut you down,” Hansen added.

The All Blacks will be looking to make it three wins from three after opening with two wins against the Wallabies.

Team (15-1)

Israel Dagg; Cory Jane, Conrad Smith, Ma’a Nonu, Julian Savea; Daniel Carter, Aaron Smith; Kieran Read, Richie McCaw (capt), Victor Vito; Brodie Retallick, Luke Romano; Owen Franks, Keven Mealamu, Tony Woodcock.

Reserves: Andrew Hore, Charlie Faumuina, Samuel Whitelock, Liam Messam, Piri Weepu, Aaron Cruden, Ben Smith