THE ALL BLACKS have made just one change for Saturday’s World Cup semi-final against South Africa at Twickenham.
Prop Joe Moody comes in at loosehead to replace Wyatt Crockett, who is ruled out with a groin injury, while Ben Franks is named on the bench.
After running riot with nine tries against France, the All Blacks are heavy favourites to set up a decider against either Australia or Argentina on 31 October.
But coach Steve Hansen knows they cannot afford to take a resurgent Springboks lightly.
He said: “We’ve put a full stop on last weekend’s performance and have been slowly building throughout the week to produce another game we can all be proud of.
“Though we’ve met many times over the years, we’ve only played three times at the Rugby World Cup and these Cup finals matches are totally different.
“They have a live or die nature to them and both teams will be desperate to advance.”
New Zealand (v South Africa)
15. Ben Smith
14. Nehe Milner-Skudder
13. Conrad Smith
12. Ma’a Nonu
11. Julian Savea
10. Daniel Carter
9. Aaron Smith
1. Joe Moody
2. Dane Coles
3. Owen Franks
4. Brodie Retallick
5. Sam Whitelock
6. Jerome Kaino
7. Richie McCaw (captain)
8. Kieran Read
Replacements:
16. Keven Mealamu
17. Ben Franks
18. Charlie Faumuina
19. Victor Vito
20. Sam Cane
21. Tawera Kerr-Barlow
22. Beauden Barrett
23. Sonny Bill Williams
