By Jim Kayes
All Blacks second-five Ma’a Nonu did not train today because of a sore leg but is expected to be fine for Sunday’s test in Marseille.
Having lost to France in June the All Blacks want to finish their season on a better note and they are expected to name their top side tomorrow to make sure that happens.
The big guy Neemia Tialata returns to the front row as one of three expected changes to a team the coaches say has been hard to pick.
All Blacks assistant coach Wayne Smith said there was real competition for a spot on the wing.
“There is a real contest going on out wide as you can see. Zac Guildford hasn’t done anything wrong, Corey Jane ahs been a form player, Ben Smith’s put runs on the board in Italy, Tamati Ellison – so there are some options out there.”
The option this week is expected to be Jane while at blindside the door swings back to Jerome Kaino after Adam Thomson started against England.
“Lock and front row, I think there’s some good options coming through so it’s not as easy as it probably sounds,” says Smith.
After the loss to France to June and the triple defeats to South Africa, the All Blacks want to finish the test season in a winning way.
“There is a real feeling, rightly or wrongly, that it defines us, this game, that it sets up our season, sets up our summer, sets up next year,” says Smith.
And of course there is the question of silverware.
“We are one-all with the French this year and the Dave Gallagher trophy is up for grabs - we’d like to take him home, put him next to Sir Ed, it would be good.”
Brad Thorn and halfback Andy Ellis will return home on Sunday after being released on compassionate grounds.
Thorn has a large family and was not expected to play against the Barbarians while Ellis’ wife is expecting their first baby.
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