 New Zealand coach Graham Henry named his squad on Sunday |
New Zealand coach Graham Henry left one place open when he announced a 29-man squad for the World Cup in September. Injured All Blacks prop Greg Somerville has been given another three weeks to prove his fitness following Achilles tendon surgery.
The only surprises in Henry's selection were recalls for scrum-half Andy Ellis and loose forward Sione Lauaki at the expense of Piri Weepu and Troy Flavell.
The deadline for the complete 30-man squad to be named is 14 August.
New Zealand are the favourites to win the World Cup after retaining the Tri-Nations title on Saturday with a 26-12 win over Australia in Auckland.
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The 29-man squad was made up of 15 forwards and 14 backs and will be captained by Canterbury flanker Richie McCaw.
"They are talented players who have worked hard to prove themselves over a long period of time," said Henry.
"We have been working towards Rugby World Cup for years and now it is our only focus. We are doing everything we can in terms of preparation."
New Zealand World Cup squad:
Backs: Mils Muliaina, Leon MacDonald, Doug Howlett, Joe Rokocoko, Sitiveni Sivivatu, Isaia Toeava, Conrad Smith, Luke McAlister, Aaron Mauger, Daniel Carter, Nick Evans, Byron Kelleher, Brendon Leonard, Andrew Ellis.
Forwards: Anton Oliver, Keven Mealamu, Andrew Hore; Carl Hayman, Neemia Tialata, Tony Woodcock, (plus one); Chris Jack, Keith Robinson, Ali Williams; Reuben Thorne, Jerry Collins, Sione Lauaki, Chris Masoe, Richie McCaw (capt), Rodney So'oialo.
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