All Blacks go for experience in squad

World number one New Zealand named their most experienced squad yesterday as they chase their first World Cup success in 24 years at home in next month’s tournament.

The 30-man squad, named in Brisbane and which will be led by All Blacks flanker Richie McCaw, comprises 16 forwards and 14 backs.

The All Blacks, consistently ranked number one in the world, have a well-documented history of World Cup collapses which has earned them the tag of chokers on the big stage.

There is a combined 1,133 Test caps of experience in the All Blacks squad.

Along with skipper McCaw there are four others – fly-half Daniel Carter, hooker Keven Mealamu, full-back Mils Muliaina and lock Ali Williams – who will appear in their third World Cup tournament, while another seven will be playing in their second tournament.

“It’s an incredibly exciting time for the team and a unique opportunity to represent New Zealand at home,” coach Graham Henry said.

“The players will be facing the ultimate rugby challenge – playing for the most coveted trophy in world rugby, the Rugby World Cup.”

Among this year’s All Blacks to miss selection were wingers Hosea Gear, Sitiveni Sivivatu and Ben Smith, loose forward Liam Messam, prop Wyatt Crockett and lock Jarrad Hoeata.

“It was an incredibly difficult process. All the players who missed selection are not only outstanding players but special people,” Henry said.

“This team has been selected on current form. We believe there is a good balance,” he added.

The All Blacks won the inaugural World Cup at home in 1987 but have failed since then and in a major upset were dumped out by France 20-18 in the quarter-finals of the 2007 tournament in France.

The All Blacks open their World Cup campaign against Tonga at Eden Park on September 9 and are also grouped with France, Japan and Canada.