Ireland coach Eddie O'Sullivan has rejected suggestions that New Zealand have named their second string for Saturday's clash at Lansdowne Road. The All Blacks have named a completely different team from the 41-3 thrashing of Wales last weekend.
"If that is a second 15, I will eat my hat," said O'Sullivan.
"Graham Henry has been smart here. He has picked a good side for Wales and the same for us. It is a strong team who will not do us many favours."
Although all 15 Kiwi players are winning their first start of the tour, O'Sullivan said he did not think New Zealand would be caught cold.
He argued that Ireland, without injured skipper Brian O'Driscoll, were in a similar position.
"This is our first game of the season as an international 15," added O'Sullivan.
"We have gone through a fair bit of transition ourselves. We are both in the same boat and I do not think that is any real advantage. They have been training together for a few weeks now."
Strong winds and possible rain have been forecast for Saturday and O'Sullivan admitted it would cause a change in gameplan for both sides.
"We will have to change our attacking zones, drop further up the field and be more careful. It is hard to pass the ball over long distances in these conditions. There is no point saying you do not have to adjust because you do," said O'Sullivan.
MMIX
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