All Blacks coach Steve Hansen recalls stars as ‘underdogs’ face Ireland rematch
New Zealand are out to avenge 40-29 defeat in Chicago earlier this month which ended their world-record 18-match win streak
New Zealand will go into their Ireland rematch as “underdogs” on Saturday, claimed coach Steve Hansen, despite recalling the world champion’s big names as they seek to avenge their historic loss.
Only four players remain in the starting side named on Thursday for the eagerly anticipated Dublin clash from the youthful line-up that demolished Italy 68-10 last week as Hansen looks to restore pride following a 40-29 defeat in Chicago on November 5.
The backline of that losing team has been revamped, with Israel Dagg replacing Waiseke Naholo on the wing and a new centre pairing of Malakai Fekitoa and Anton Liernert-Brown.
Crucially, veteran locks Brodie Retallick and Sam Whitelock return to the second row after the pair’s injury-enforced absence was keenly felt at Soldier Field.
"It's great we get an opportunity to play them again"@samcane7 looks forward to this weekend's rematch with @IrishRugby#IREvNZL pic.twitter.com/cNWH4CiJFU— All Blacks (@AllBlacks) November 17, 2016
Fly half Beauden Barrett, recently crowned World Rugby player of the year, returns along with a large group of established stars rested by Hansen for the Italy match.