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The All Blacks have gambled on a makeshift wing as they attempt to counter their weaknesses and the Wallabies’ kicking strength in Saturday’s Bledisloe Cup Test in Auckland.
Coach Graham Henry named Richard Kahui, usually a midfield back, on the wing with Mils Muliaina reverting to fullback in place of Leon MacDonald who was withdrawn with concussion issues.
The move was further evidence that Henry lacked confidence in regular squad wingers Anthony Tuitavake and Rudi Wulf to counter the astute kicking game employed by the Wallabies in their 34-19 win in Sydney last weekend.
Although it means playing Kahui out of position, assistant coach Wayne Smith said it was the best option.
“He (Kahui) has got a big kicking game. He is pretty comfortable there, he understands the tactics and he’s a good all-round footballer. He will be fine,” Smith said.
The Wallabies overcame a shortage of possession last Saturday by successfully kicking for territory, and Henry admitted his side blundered by trying to run their way into an attacking position only to be met by staunch defence.
The All Blacks were also well beaten at the breakdown, although the return of Richie McCaw from injury should improve their stocks considerably this week even with the ace No 7 short on match fitness.
But McCaw, who played under Deans with the successful Crusaders, said what his former mentor used as a winning formula one week was not necessarily what he would do the next week,
“They will certainly tweak their game. That’s the way Robbie operates and he will come up with something new,” McCaw said.
A final call on who will start at halfback and hooker for the All Blacks is likely to be made on Friday.
Jimmy Cowan, Andy Ellis and Piri Weepu are all bracketed at halfback with Andrew Hore and Keven Mealamu bracketed at hooker.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.