Try scoring sensation Zac Guildford will make his New Zealand debut against Wales on Saturday in the opening clash of this autumn’s Invesco Perpetual Series at at the Millennium Stadium. In doing so he will come face to face with former age-grade foe Leigh Halfpenny.
Guildford starred for the all conquering New Zealand Under 20s in last year’s IRB Junior World Championship. He is no stranger to Blues winger Halfpenny as they have met on the international calendar on three previous occasions at age grade level.
The 20-year-old Guildford has had a stunning domestic season with Hawkes Bay, racing over for 13 tries. He is included in an All Blacks side which has made six changes to the side which brushed aside Australia 32-19 in Tokyo last weekend.
New Zealand coach Graham Henry has recalled Wyatt Crockett who has benefitted from Tony Woodcock’s one-match suspension while Dan Carter is selected despite having an injury cloud hovering above him. The Canterbury Crusader has recovered from a calf problem which he picked up against the Wallabies.
There are three other changes in the All Blacks pack. Second row Jason Eaton, flanker Jerome Kaino and number eight Kieran Read are also brought in while nuggety scrum half Brendan Leonard replaces Jimmy Cowan.
New Zealand: Mils Muliaina; Cory Jane; Conrad Smith, Ma Nonu; Zac Guildford; Dan Carter, Brendan Leonard; Wyatt Crockett, Andrew Hore, Neemia Tialata, Brad Thorn, Jason Eaton, Jerome Kaino, Richie McCaw (capt), Kieran Read.
Replacements: C Flynn, O Franks, T Donnelly, A Thomson, J Cowan, S Donald, B Smith
