All Blacks Squad Announced

The first All Blacks squad of 2010 is named. There are 4 new caps included in the 26 man squad to play Ireland and Wales.

The All Blacks squad is:

Forwards:

Anthony Boric North Harbour (13)
Aled de Malmanche Waikato (2)
Tom Donnelly Otago (6)
Ben Franks Tasman (uncapped)
Owen Franks Canterbury (9)
Jerome Kaino Auckland (25)
Richie McCaw (capt) Canterbury (80)
Keven Mealamu Auckland (71)
Kieran Read Canterbury (16)
Adam Thomson Otago (15)
Brad Thorn Canterbury (37)
Neemia Tialata Wellington (41)
Victor Vito * Wellington
Tony Woodcock North Harbour (61)

Backs:

Daniel Carter Canterbury (66)
Jimmy Cowan Southland (33)
Aaron Cruden * Manawatu
Israel Dagg * Hawke’s Bay
Zac Guildford Hawke’s Bay (2)
Cory Jane Wellington (12)
Richard Kahui Waikato (8)
Mils Muliaina Waikato (82)
Josevata Rokocoko Auckland (60)
Conrad Smith Wellington (33)
Benson Stanley * Auckland
Piri Weepu Wellington (35)

* Denotes new cap
Number of Test caps in brackets.

A fairly predictable squad given the number of injuries but there a few shortcomings in my view. I have to say there is an average look about this side compared to years gone by but at full strength they may just get away with it. It is only when you scratch the surface do the cracks begin to appear. Props are adequate without being anything special. The depth at hooker has been exposed and the second row is looking a bit thin also. The loose forwards however, are ok. If Ma'a Nonu and Sitiveni Sivivatu are fit the backline looks quite good and offers plenty of experience. They still haven't chosen a specialist number 8 or right wing and given the fact the World Cup is fast approaching this has to be a concern. They have had plenty of time but have continued with their policy of having players play out of postion to mask this problem and time is running out.