UPDATE 1-Rugby-New Zealand name strongest side for France match

Wed Nov 25, 2009 6:15pm GMT
 
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* Henry gives nod to Tialata, Kaino and Jane

* McCaw ready to face France physical challenge (Adds details, quotes, byline)

By Jean-Francois Rosnoblet

MARSEILLE, Nov 25 (Reuters) - New Zealand have picked their strongest available side for Saturday's test against France (1945 GMT) with recalls for Neemia Tialata, Jerome Kaino and Cory Jane.

Tighthead prop Tialata replaces Owen Franks, blindside flanker Kaino takes over from Adam Thomson and wing Jane comes in for Zac Guildford in a side showing three changes from the team who defeated England 19-6 last weekend.

"The French will be a passionate, physical side who are undefeated at home in their November tests so it will be another huge test for the All Blacks. The team is looking forward to the challenge," head coach Graham Henry told reporters after naming his team on Wednesday.

France, who defeated world champions South Africa on Nov. 13 and Samoa last Saturday, will field 11 members of the team who beat New Zealand in Dunedin this year plus centres Yannick Jauzion and David Marty, lock Sebastien Chabal and number eight Julien Bonnaire.

The Marseille match will be a milestone for fullback Mils Muliaina who will win his 82nd cap and become the second most-capped All Black of all time behind former captain Sean Fitzpatrick, who made 92 appearances for New Zealand.

Flanker and captain Richie McCaw will play his 8Oth international to become the third most-capped All Black.   Continued...

 

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