It is the most experienced squad New Zealand has ever sent to a World Cup with Byron Kelleher and Reuben Thorne on their third campaign and, if Somerville is selected, there will be 15 survivors from 2003.
Apart from the dumping of Weepu and Flavell the squad is largely as expected.
Imposing loose forward Sione Lauaki has been included after missing the Tri-Nations because of injury, and with Thorne favoured as a utility man who can double at flanker or lock, there was no room for Flavell.
SQUAD:
Forwards: Rodney So'oialo, Chris Masoe, Richie McCaw (captain), Jerry Collins, Reuben Thorne, Sione Lauaki, Ali Williams, Chris Jack, Keith Robinson, Carl Hayman, Neemia Tialata, Tony Woodcock, Anton Oliver, Keven Mealamu, Andrew Hore.
Backs: Leon MacDonald,Mils Muliaina, Doug Howlett, Joe Rokocoko, Sitiveni Sivivatu, Isaia Toeava, Conrad Smith, Luke McAlister, Aaron Mauger, Daniel Carter, Nick Evans, Byron Kelleher, Andrew Ellis, Brendon Leonard.
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