Wed, Jun 11, 2003 - Page 19 News List

England, All Black list players ahead of match

AP , WELLINGTON, NEW ZEALAND

While England rugby union coach Clive Woodward named a familiar starting 15 yesterday, his All Black opposite John Mitchell included two new caps in his side for Saturday's one-off test in Wellington.

Mitchell named Fijiian-born speedster Joe Rokocoko on the right wing and the burly linebreaker Ma'a Nonu at center, creating a young and exciting All Black back division for the match at the Westpac Stadium.

Doug Howlett, who was recently rated the best wing in world rugby, was named at fullback in place of Leon MacDonald who has been forced to miss the Wellington test with a head injury.

Mitchell has recalled former captain Anton Oliver at hooker after a layoff of more than a year with injury and entrusted the No.8 position, opposite England's vastly experienced Lawrence Dalaglio, to one-test rookie Rodney So'oialo.

Rokocoko said the All Blacks, had watched the England team in victory against the New Zealand Maori on Monday were impressed.

"All the boys had a watch of the England game plan and tried to pick out some strengths and weaknesses. We've been working on that today."

Woodward has chosen a starting 15 unchanged from the final match of this year's Six Nations championship.

The only alterations to the England squad of 22 that beat Ireland 42-6 in Dublin on March 30 are on the reserves bench where Steve Borthwick replaces Danny Grewcock and prop Phil Vickery returns from injury.

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