New Zealand take on Australia in the first match of the 2004 Tri-nations competition. The game to be played at Wellington Stadium on Saturday, will be the first time the two nations have met in an international since Australia’s victory in the semi-final of the 2003 Rugby World Cup.

All Black lock Keith Robinson injured his back at training during the week and may miss the game, Simon Maling is set to take his played should he not play. Flanker Richie McCaw was originally named in the starting line up, but withdrew yet again because of headaches. Marty Holah will start the game in his place.

The Australian team is severly weaken through injury. Most significantly half-back and captain George Gregan is out from an injury sustained during the match against the Pacific Islanders. Also winger Clyde Rathbone is starting ahead of Wendell Sailor.

Australia: Chris Latham, Clyde Rathbone, Stirling Mortlock, Matt Giteau, Lote Tuqiri, Stephen Larkham, Chris Whitaker, David Lyons, Phil Waugh, Radike Samo, Nathan Sharpe (c), Justin Harrison, Al Baxter, Brendan Cannon, Bill Young.

New Zealand: Mils Muliaina, Doug Howlett, Tana Umaga (c), Daniel Carter, Joe Rokocoko, Carlos Spencer, Justin Marshall, Xavier Rush, Marty Holah, Jono Gibbes, Keith Robinson (Simon Maling), Chris Jack, Carl Hayman, Keven Mealamu, Kees Meeuws.

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