New Zealand team to face Wales in World Cup third-place play-off

Steve Hansen after defeat to England in World Cup semi final Steve Hansen has named his final All Blacks team (Ashley Western/PA)

New Zealand coach Steve Hansen has rung the changes as he has named his side to face Wales in the bronze-medal match on Friday.

Hansen has created space for his departing veterans with captain Kieran Read, centres Sonny Bill Williams and Ryan Crotty, and wing Ben Smith all named to start.

Just eight starters from New Zealand's 19-7 semi-final loss to England have been named.

"This was a tough team to select because, as always, everyone wanted to play," Hansen said.

"But with a short turnaround and the nature of the tournament we feel that this is the right team for this occasion."

Hansen will retire as All Blacks coach after the match.

Wales have not beaten New Zealand in 66 years, but carry the momentum of winning the Six Nations earlier this year and the added incentive of it being Warren Gatland's last match as coach after 12 years in charge.



New Zealand team to play Wales

Forwards: 1 Joe Moody, 2 Dane Coles, 3 Nepo Laulala, 4 Brodie Retallick, 5 Scott Barrett, 6 Shannon Frizell, 7 Sam Cane, 8 Kieran Read (Captain)

Backs: 9 Aaron Smith, 10 Richie Mo'unga, 11 Rieko Ioane, 12 Sonny Bill Williams, 13 Ryan Crotty, 14 Ben Smith, 15 Beauden Barrett

Replacements: 16 Liam Coltman, 17 Atu Moli, 18 Angus Ta'avao, 19 Patrick Tuipulotu, 20 Matt Todd, 21 Brad Weber, 22 Anton Lienert-Brown, 23 Jordie Barrett

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