All Blacks: Dagg, Kahui return as SBW moved to bench

All Blacks Israel Dagg, Aaron Cruden and Richard Kahui will start in Sunday's Rugby World Cup semifinal against Australia. Photo / NZ Herald

All Black coach Graham Henry has made three changes to his side for Sunday's Rugby World Cup semifinal against Australia.

As expected Aaron Cruden will wear the number 10 jersey while Israel Dagg will start at fullback with the duo replacing injured pair Colin Slade and Mils Muliaina respectively.

In the only other change Richard Kahui will start on the left wing with Sonny Bill Williams moving to the bench.

The forward pack remains the same from the side that beat Argentina in last weekend's quarter-final.

Other changes on the bench see Andy Ellis get the back-up halfback spot, with Stephen Donald the back up 10.

Henry said: "The team was very happy with the way they played in the quarter-final win over Argentina. It was a really intense battle and that's what we needed heading into this weekend's match. We have been building slowly this week to be ready for Sunday night when we know there will need to be a further lift in intensity and physicality. It's a semifinal in the Rugby World Cup and the team is excited by the challenge that lies ahead."

Australia name their side later today at 1.30pm.

Starting XV:

1. Tony Woodcock (81)
2. Keven Mealamu (90)
3. Owen Franks (29)
4. Samuel Whitelock (23)
5. Brad Thorn (57)
6. Jerome Kaino (46)
7. Richie McCaw - captain (101)
8. Kieran Read (34)
9. Piri Weepu (54)
10. Aaron Cruden (7)
11. Richard Kahui (15)
12. Ma'a Nonu (64)
13. Conrad Smith (53)
14. Cory Jane (29)
15. Israel Dagg (10)

Reserves:

16. Andrew Hore (60)
17. Ben Franks (14)
18. Ali Williams (71)
19. Victor Vito (12)
20. Andy Ellis (24)
21. Stephen Donald (22)
22. Sonny Bill Williams (12)

- HERALD ONLINE