Rookies the right way to go for NZ
All Black coach Steve Hansen is not devaluing the jersey, he is merely doing what is in the best interest of New Zealand's national pride.
Hansen was forced to defend his decision to name a much-revised team for the historic encounter with the United States at Soldiers Field in Chicago on Saturday.
Hansen named least experienced New Zealand Test team for five years.
While names like Aaron Cruden and Sonny Bill Williams in the starting XV, and Dan Carter on the bench, gives the team some experience, a number of other high-profile players will be observing the action from the stands.
Hansen unveiled 12 changes from the team who pipped Australia 29-28 in Brisbane two weeks ago.
"The primary thing is that we've got to do the right thing for our team," he said.
"This is a great opportunity for us to give some people some game time and give some other people a bit of a breather because it's been a busy schedule."
The entire starting pack from Brisbane has been replaced aside from No.8 Kieran Read, who will captain his country for the eighth time in 70 Tests.
Regular skipper Richie McCaw will be among the spectators.
"Richie might have wanted to play but he doesn't pick the team," Hansen said.
"He's been busy and this is the logical game to leave him out."
Just fullback Israel Dagg and wing Cory Jane are retained in the starting backline.
The last time an All Blacks starting team with fewer than their 331 caps played was the shaky 20-6 defeat of Italy at Milan in 2009.
It is 155 Tests since a less experienced tight five was fielded.
Source: 3news
