Tri-Nations: All Blacks captain Richie McCaw said Australia's decision to recall Phil Waugh at openside flanker would not affect his approach to their Tri-Nations clash in Auckland tomorrow.
New Zealand go into the game at Eden Park, where they have not lost to Australia since 1986, full of confidence after a string of fine performances founded on McCaw's rampaging form and knowing a victory will secure the series crown.
McCaw, who succeeded Tana Umaga as skipper in May, was the driving force in the 13-9 win over Australia at Brisbane last month, and he insisted the dropping of George Smith to the bench in favour of Waugh will not faze him.
"I'm a little surprised," he said of the decision by Australia coach John Connolly. "I rate George Smith highly. It's still a challenge when I play against him."
Waugh's inclusion was widely seen as aimed at closing down McCaw, who dominated the breakdown in Brisbane and in the series opener in Christchurch, which the All Blacks won 32-12.
"I personally don't think that's the reason," said McCaw.
"Certainly Phil will be a handful at breakdown time, though I always find George Smith the same. They both have a lot of skills with ball in hand, but from our point of view it doesn't change a whole lot."
The All Blacks played down an injury scare after centre Aaron Mauger limped out of training on Wednesday with what appeared to be a groin problem.
Mauger, who will have a fourth different midfield partner this season when he lines up with Isaia Toeava tomorrow, said he should be ready for his 37th cap.
"I think it's just a little bit of a niggle so hopefully I'll be able to shake it pretty quickly," he said.
That will be a relief to Toeava, who will be starting his first match for the All Blacks at centre after coach Graham Henry switched Mils Muliaina to full-back. The selection leaves Toeava, in just his fourth Test, facing Australian vice-captain Stirling Mortlock in midfield.
NEW ZEALAND: M Muliaina; D Howlett, I Toeava, A Mauger, J Rokocoko; D Carter, B Kelleher; T Woodcock, K Mealamu, C Hayman; C Jack, J Eaton; J Collins, R McCaw (capt), R So'oialo. Replacements: A Hore, G Somerville, A Williams, C Masoe, P Weepu, L McAlister, L MacDonald.
AUSTRALIA: C Latham; C Rathbone, S Mortlock, M Giteau, L Tuqiri; S Larkham, G Gregan (capt); G Holmes, J Paul, R Blake; N Sharpe, D Vickerman; R Elsom, P Waugh, W Palu. Replacements: T McIsaac, A Baxter, M Chisholm, G Smith, B Sheehan, M Gerrard, M Rogers.
New Zealand v Australia Auckland, Saturday, 6.30am
On TV: Sky Sports 2
