CLICK HERE to view the 2009 All Blacks Squad
The All Blacks named a 29 man Rugby World Cup squad today – the 30th man will be prop Greg Somerville if he recovers from injury.
The two surprise inclusions in the squad were eighthman Sione Lauaki and scrumhalf Andrew Ellis, with Piri Weepu being the shock omission.
Waikato Chiefs no. 8 Lauaki comes in at the expense of Troy Flavell, with Ellis making the squad ahead of Weepu.
All Blacks coach Graham Henry explained the reasoning behind Weepu’s omission.
“Piri hasn’t played particularly well through the Tri-Nations and Andy played particularly well for the Junior All Blacks.
“It’s a very contestable position and it’s good for New Zealand rugby that we have got some depth there at halfback.
“Obviously he’s disappointed, but he handled it particularly well. He has set his sights for the future and hopefully he will be back.”
He then talked about the selection of Lauaki.
“He’s a marvellous ball-carrier and played some exceptional rugby near the end of the Super 14. He came in for the Junior All Blacks against Australia and was the star player.
“He also destroys people on defence and that’s helpful. We think he can add to our attacking potency as a team.”
Henry offered his congratulations to the players.
“I would like to formally congratulate the squad. They are talented players who have worked hard to prove themselves over a long period of time.”
“We have been working towards Rugby World Cup for years and now it is our only focus.We are doing everything we can in terms of preparation,” added Henry.
New Zealand All Blacks Rugby World Cup squad:
Forwards:
Jerry Collins (Wellington)
Carl Hayman (Otago)
Andrew Hore (Taranaki)
Chris Jack (Tasman)
Sione Lauaki (Waikato)
Chris Masoe (Wellington)
Richie McCaw (Canterbury, captain)
Keven Mealamu (Auckland)
Anton Oliver (Otago)
Keith Robinson (Waikato)
Rodney So’oialo (Wellington)
Reuben Thorne (Canterbury)
Neemia Tialata (Wellington)
Ali Williams (Auckland)
Tony Woodcock (North Harbour).
Backs:
Dan Carter (Canterbury)
Andrew Ellis (Canterbury)
Nick Evans (Otago)
Doug Howlett (Auckland)
Byron Kelleher (Waikato)
Brendon Leonard (Waikato)
Luke McAlister (North Harbour)
Leon MacDonald (Canterbury)
Aaron Mauger (Canterbury)
Malili Muliaina (Waikato)
Josevata Rokocoko (Auckland)
Sitiveni Sivivatu (Waikato)
Conrad Smith (Wellington)
Isaia Toeava (Auckland)
See who has been inducted into the International Rugby Hall of Fame. (more…)
Bryan Habana puts in a big hit on Mose Tuiali'i in the Super14 semifinal against…
Robbie Fleck takes a swipe at Ben Cohen - and connects. (more…)
Corne Krige, after nearly being strangled to death on the deck, lashes out at Martin…
Francois Steyn kicks a monster drop goal against the Western Force (more…)