Tri-Nations: New Zealand coach Graham Henry continued with his tinkering policy before next year's World Cup by naming utility back Isaia Toeava at centre for the Tri-Nations clash with Australia on Saturday, Mils Muliaina reverting to fullback.
Toeava, who played fullback for the Wellington Hurricanes in the Super 14, played centre for the All Blacks against Argentina in June and for Auckland last weekend in the provincial championship, reportedly at the request of Henry.
"'Ice' is a talented young man and the challenge of starting at centre against Australia is the next step in his development," said Henry.
Muliaina, who had played mostly at fullback before moving to centre for the Tri-Nations, returns to his normal position, Leon MacDonald moving to the bench.
"We have a number of players in good form which gives us options," said Henry. "This move bolsters our options at 15, keeps Leon MacDonald fresh, and makes room for Isaia in the starting line-up."
Henry has repeatedly said he wanted to develop depth in every position before the World Cup and has been trying players with utility value like Toeava and Muliaina in several positions. Toeava made his first Test start against Scotland last year at fullback.
Taranaki lock Jason Eaton has been recalled to the starting XV after being replaced by Ali Williams in the 13-9 victory over Australia in Brisbane, while Doug Howlett gets another start on the right wing, replacing Rico Gear.
New Zealand, unbeaten after three Tri-Nations games, can seal the title with victory in Auckland on Saturday (kick-off 6.35am Irish).
South Africa coach Jake White, meanwhile, sent four of his squad back to their provinces yesterday to play domestic rugby at the weekend.
Scrumhalf Enrico Januarie, prop Lawrence Sephaka, utility back JP Pietersen and loose forward Pierre Spies were released after a practice session in Johannesburg.
White said the four were still in contention for match against New Zealand in Pretoria on August 26th but needed to get match fit.
"They have not been dropped," White told reporters.
•Canada booked their place in next year's World Cup Group B alongside Australia, Wales and Fiji with a 56-7 win over the US in Newfoundland. The fifth team in the group will be from the Asia region.
NEW ZEALAND: M Muliaina; D Howlett, I Toeava, A Mauger, J Rokocoko; D Carter, B Kelleher; T Woodcock, K Mealamu, C Hayman; C Jack, J Eaton; J Collins, R McCaw (capt), R So'oialo. Replacements: A Hore, G Somerville, A Williams, C Masoe, P Weepu, L McAlister, L MacDonald.
