New Zealand have been forced to once again adapt their backline for their Rugby World Cup quarter final with Argentina.
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Centre Sonny Bill Williams will start on the right wing as Zac Guildford, Israel Dagg and Richard Kahui all ruled out by injury despite the team management had insisted during the week Dagg and Kahui were fit to play.
The team contains seven changes from the side that played Canada in their last pool match including four in the backs with Cory Jane and Williams coming in on the wings, Ma’a Nonu at inside centre and Piri Weepu starting at halfback.
In the forwards, Richie McCaw comes back on the flank despite an ongoing foot problem, Keven Mealamu returns at hooker and Brad Thorn replaces Ali Williams at lock.
The reshuffle means that Mills Muliaina – who made his All Blacks debut in 2003, becomes the second All Black to reach the century milestone – will come in at full back and will follow captain Richie McCaw in winning his 100th cap with the captain having reached his milestone against France two weeks ago.
“I want to congratulate Mils on this outstanding achievement. He is a special man and has been a world-class All Black for many years,” coach Graham Henry said.
“The consummate professional really, as well as a very influential member of the All Blacks leadership group.”
Aaron Cruden, who was called into the All Blacks to replace the injured Daniel Carter, has been named on the bench.
The All Blacks and Argentina have played each other 13 times with the All Blacks winning 12 and one drawn.
New Zealand
Mils Muliaina; Cory Jane, Conrad Smith, Ma’a Nonu, Sonny Bill Williams; Colin Slade, Piri Weepu; Kieran Read, Richie McCaw (capt), Jerome Kaino; Sam Whitelock, Brad Thorn; Owen Franks, Keven Mealamu, Tony Woodcock.
Replacements: Andrew Hore, Ben Franks, Ali Williams, Victor Vito, Jimmy Cowan, Aaron Cruden, Isaia Toeava.
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