Report: Ireland 7-45 NZ

Coach Graham Henry has combined eight of the team that beat Wales 41-3 and seven of the starting side that won 45-7 in Dublin.

Keven Mealamu starts at hooker with Anton Oliver out due to a calf strain, with lock James Ryan also unavailable.

Doug Howlett and Sitiveni Sivivatu get the nod on the wings ahead of Rico Gear and Joe Rokocoko, who is on the bench.

"It's the most difficult team we've had to pick as selectors across the board," Henry said.

"Rico Gear, for example, scored a hat-trick against Wales and can't get in the team.

"But I think Doug (Howlett) is playing the best rugby of his life. He's playing right on the edge of his ability."

Captain Tana Umaga, full-back Mils Muliaina, fly-half Dan Carter and scrum-half Byron Kelleher all return to New Zealand's backline.

I thought Rocketman and Rico would get places and I'm really gutted about Oliver too From TD Have your say on Scrum V

Up front, Carl Hayman is recalled at tight-head prop to face England's scrummaging powerhouse Andrew Sheridan, with lock Chris Jack, blind-side flanker Jerry Collins and number eight Rodney So'oialo also back in the side.

Open-side flanker Richie McCaw, captain against Ireland in Umaga's absence, completes the back row.

Henry said his side are looking forward to "a huge game" on Saturday, particularly up front.

"We always respect England," he added. "They are the current world champions and they beat us here last time.

"We were very impressed with the way they played against Australia. They destroyed the Australian scrum."

England will announce their team on Wednesday.