New Zealand v Australia, Rugby Championship
All Blacks draft in Crockett
ESPN Staff
August 23, 2012
All Blacks prop Wyatt Crockett makes a new friend, Port Elizabeth, South Africa, August 17, 2011
Wyatt Crockett gets the nod at loose-head for the Kiwis © Getty Images
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Players/Officials: Wyatt Crockett | Tony Woodcock
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The All Blacks have made just one change to the side that beat Australia last weekend, ahead of their rematch in Auckland, with Wyatt Crockett coming in at loose-head.

Tony Woodcock suffered a rib injury in Sydney last weekend and has been replaced by the specialist Crockett. Coach Steve Hansen said that while the All Blacks had been happy with their opening 27-19 win it was expected they would continue to seek an improvement in their performance, which they were also anticipating from Australia.

"Playing in front of our home crowd is always exciting for the All Blacks," Hansen said."The fans are important to us and getting the opportunity to play a home Test is one we cherish."

Hansen also announced that Charlie Faumuina, Tamati Ellison and Adam Thomson would be released to play for their provinces in the opening round of New Zealand's domestic cup.

New Zealand: Israel Dagg; Cory Jane, Ma'a Nonu, Sonny Bill Williams, Hosea Gear; Dan Carter, Aaron Smith; Wyatt Crockett, Keven Mealamu, Owen Franks, Luke Romano, Sam Whitelock, Liam Messam, Richie McCaw, Kieran Read.

Replacements: Andrew Hore, Ben Franks, Brodie Retallick, Victor Vito, Piri Weepu, Aaron Cruden, Ben Smith

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.

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