MEDIA RELEASE — All Blacks side to face Argentina named
The All Blacks side has been named to play Argentina in their opening match of Rugby World Cup 2015 at Wembley Stadium, London, on Sunday 20 September (Kick-off: 4.45PM).
The team is: (with Test caps in brackets):
1. Tony Woodcock (115)
2. Dane Coles (30)
3. Owen Franks (72)
4. Brodie Retallick (41)
5. Samuel Whitelock (66)
6. Jerome Kaino (60)
7. Richie McCaw – captain (142)
8. Kieran Read (77)
9. Aaron Smith (41)
10. Daniel Carter (106)
11. Julian Savea (35)
12. Ma’a Nonu (97)
13. Conrad Smith (88)
14. Nehe Milner-Skudder (2)
15. Ben Smith (41)
RESERVES:
16. Keven Mealamu (126)
17. Wyatt Crockett (40)
18. Charlie Faumuina (27)
19. Victor Vito (28)
20. Sam Cane (24)
21. TJ Perenara (15)
22. Beauden Barrett (30)
23. Sonny Bill Williams (26)
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All Blacks Head Coach Steve Hansen said it was exciting to be naming the team for the first match of the tournament.
“We’re all itching to get started and with 11 of the 23 players about to take part in their first Rugby World Cup match, there’s real excitement, enthusiasm and hunger in the group. We all can’t wait for our Tournament to start.”
The 11 All Blacks marking their first RWC appearance are Ben Smith, Nehe Milner-Skudder, Julian Savea, Aaron Smith, Brodie Retallick, Dane Coles, Wyatt Crockett, Charlie Faumuina, Sam Cane, TJ Perenara and Beauden Barrett.
Hansen said the squad has had a great build up since arriving in the United Kingdom.
“We’ve had a wonderful reception here in London. The boys have really enjoyed connecting with our fans and this wonderful city. But the business is about to start and we’re all looking forward to that because, after all, that’s why we’re here.
“We’ve selected what we believe is a very strong team. We have the utmost respect for Argentina who we know a lot more about now because of their involvement in The Rugby Championship. But it also means they know a lot more about us.”
Hansen added: “We will need to be at our very best to get our Tournament away to a good start. We’ve had a great preparation and there will be no excuses for not performing on Sunday.”
“Main photo”
