ALL BLACKS/AUSTRALIA NAME TEAMS:

Australia have dropped flanker George Smith for Saturday's must-win Tri Nations clash against New Zealand.
Smith has been replaced by Phil Waugh in one of three changes made by coach John Connolly in the wake of the lacklustre win over South Africa.

Wing Clyde Rathbone and hooker Jeremy Paul also earn recalls.

New Zealand have also made three changes for the game in Auckland, with wing Doug Howlett, lock Jason Eaton and centre Isaia Toeva all starting.

Leon McDonald, Rico Gear and Ali Williams are the players that make way, with Mils Muliaina switching from centre to full-back.

"This move bolsters our options at 15, keeps Leon MacDonald fresh, and makes room for Isaia in the starting line-up," said coach Graham Henry.

Victory over the Wallabies would seal the Tri-Nations title for New Zealand before they head to South Africa.

Australia, who needed a late try from Mat Rogers to beat South Africa on 5 August, narrowly lost 13-9 to the All Blacks last month.

The Wallabies have already lost the Bledisloe Cup after two straight defeats.

"There were some very tough selection decisions, particularly in the back row, but we feel that Phil Waugh deserves his opportunity in the starting team," said Connolly.

"George Smith has been very good for us throughout the season and is one of the world's best in his position, but we are very keen to see what Phil can bring to the mix.

"The wing was also very contentious and there has been nothing between the outside backs throughout the season."





New Zealand:
Muliaina; Howlett, Toeava, Mauger, Rokocoko; Carter, Kelleher; Woodcock, Mealamu, Hayman; Jack, Eaton; Collins, McCaw (capt), Sooialo.
Replacements: Hore, Somerville, Williams, Masoe, Weepu, McAlister, L MacDonald.

Australia:
Latham; Rathbone, Mortlock, Giteau, Tuqiri; Larkham, Gregan (capt); Holmes, Paul, Blake; Sharpe, Vickerman; Elsom, Waugh, Palu.
Replacements: McIsaac, Baxter, Chisholm, Smith, Sheehan, Gerrard, Rogers.