All Blacks team named for RWC2019 Bronze Final against Wales
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The All Blacks have overhauled their match day 23 from the team that was defeated 19-7 by England in the World Cup semi-final.
Steve Hansen has made a total of eight changes to their starting side for their third-and-fourth play-off with Wales in Tokyo on Friday.
The likes of Kieran Read, Sonny Bill Williams, Ryan Crotty and Ben Smith all start in what will be their final games in the All Blacks' jersey. They replace Anton Lienert-Brown, who has been demoted to the bench, Jack Goodhue and Sevu Reece.
Rieko Ioane returns to the side in the place of George Bridge while in the pack, Dane Coles replaces Codie Taylor at hooker with Liam Coltman coming onto the bench while Sam Whitelock and Ardie Savea are replaced by Same Cane and Shannon Frizell in the starting XV with Scott Barrett moving to lock.
On the bench, Matt Todd returns from injury to join Coltman, Lienert-Brown, Atu Moli and Bred Weber as the new faces on the bench.
All Blacks Head Coach Steve Hansen said: "This was a tough team to select because, as always, everyone wanted to play. But with a short turnaround and the nature of the Tournament, we feel that this is the right team for this occasion.
"There's been alot of external talk around this being the game that no one wants to play. However, from our point of view, we can't wait to play it. Everyone in the squad - players and management - are motivated by the opportunity to show that our last performance wasn't at the high standard that we know we can play at.
"This is a Test match against an opposition that will also be keen to make a statement. Therefore, we will need to turn up with real attitude, intent and work ethic, and then execute our skillsets to the highest level possible. The game will be physical and fast as both teams will look to play to their strengths. We are looking forward to it and can't wait."
In conclusion, Hansen said: "Whilst none of us - players, management or fans - got the result we wanted at this Tournament, this is another opportunity for us to wear the jersey and represent our country with pride. On behalf of the All Blacks, we'd like to thank our fans for all their ongoing, unconditional support. It's something that we never take for granted and is greatly appreciated by us all within the team."
Photo credit: Cameron Spencer / Getty Images
