Blacks make three changes for Sydney showdown

New Zealand have made three changes to their starting lineup for the TriNations showdown in Sydney this Saturday.

All three changes are up front. Ali Williams returns for Simon Maling in the second row. Johno Gibbes’ return from injury sees him replace Jerry Collins at blindside flanker and the final change sees Carl Hayman come in for Greg Somerville.

Chris Jack is suffering from a virus and his involvement is unsure at this point. If he fails to make it then Johno Gibbes will line out alongside Ali Williams in the second row.

A win with a bonus point for New Zeland will see them win the trophy for the third consecutive year.

New Zealand team:
1. Kees Meeuws, 2. Keven Mealamu, 3. Carl Hayman, 4. Chris Jack/Jono Gibbes, 5. Ali Williams, 6. Jono Gibbes, 7. Marty Holah, 8. Xavier Rush, 9. Justin Marshall, 10. Carlos Spencer, 11. Joe Rokocoko, 12. Daniel Carter, 13. Tana Umaga (Captain), 14. Doug Howlett, 15. Mils Muliaina

Reserves:
16. Andrew Hore, 17. Greg Somerville, 18. Mose Tuiali’i / Simon Maling, 19. Craig Newby, 20. Byron Kelleher, 21. Andrew Mehrtens, 22. Sam Tuitupou