Rugby World Cup 2015: New Zealand team to play Georgia

Steve Hansen has named the New Zealand team to take on Georgia on Friday night, as the champions embark on their third game of the Rugby World Cup at the Millennium Stadium.

There is a first appearance at the tournament for Waisake Naholo, the man who caused such devastation in Super Rugby and who made his debut against Argentina in the Rugby Championship. He returns from an injury that was expected to keep him out of the entire tournament.

Elsewhere, many of the front line team that were rested for the win over Namibia return. Ben Smith and Julian Savea join Naholo in the back three, while Conrad Smith returns in the centres to join Sonny Bill Williams – one of the few to be retained.

Charlie Faumuina is the only other, on the tighthead. Aaron Smith and Dan Carter resume their half-back partnership, while Richie McCaw will win his 145th cap on the openside flank.

All Blacks Head Coach Steve Hansen said: “We’ve selected what we think is the best 23 for this Test match and reflects where we currently are with our progress in the Rugby World Cup.

“We’re looking forward to seeing Waisake back on the track, he’s been jumping out of his skin at training and I’m sure he can’t wait for game day.”

Hansen confirmed that Ma’a Nonu, Colin Slade, Liam Messam and Beauden Barrett were not considered for the game due to carrying niggling injuries, but said they would be available for selection next week.

NEW ZEALAND TEAM TO PLAY GEORGIA

1. Wyatt Crockett (42)
2. Dane Coles (31)
3. Charlie Faumuina (29)
4. Brodie Retallick (42)
5. Samuel Whitelock (68)
6. Jerome Kaino (62)
7. Richie McCaw – captain (144)
8. Kieran Read (79)
9. Aaron Smith (42)
10. Daniel Carter (107)
11. Julian Savea (37)
12. Sonny Bill Williams (28)
13. Conrad Smith (89)
14. Waisake Naholo (1)
15. Ben Smith (43)

Replacements:

16. Keven Mealamu (127)
17. Tony Woodcock (116)
18. Owen Franks (73)
19. Victor Vito (30)
20. Sam Cane (26)
21. Tawera Kerr-Barlow (16)
22. TJ Perenara (16)
23. Malakai Fekitoa (12)

Photo by: Patrick Khachfe / Onside Images