Preview: All Blacks vs South African

Hayman's Beard heard someone on Radio Sport refer to the Springboks as "South Africa C" the other day, and we got a little riled.
No, it's not their number 1 side. But it sure as hell ain't a "C" team either. To call them that does them a great disservice after the positive showing they put in against the Wallabys, and to SA rugby in general.
Few nations are blessed with our depth when it comes to national teams, but this is a quality side in many ways.
Whereas the French sent a "C" side simply to fulfill contractual obligations, there are benefits beyond resting the frontline squad for Jake White and his management team.
Most of the French squad will never again play for their country. But these South Africans will in the coming months and years be genuine contenders for Springbok caps. Can you put a price on the experience of sending them on a no-win mission to Christchurch to play the All Blacks?
In years to come those players will be better for the experience, and if the Springboks win the World Cup then it's a double-win for White.
So it's not all bad. Seldom does one see a "poor" Springbok team. Some are better than others, and some aren't good enough to win.
But you know they'll "bring it", as the kids would say. Or something.

As for the All Blacks? Will we finally see the return of The Beard? Or are we destined to once again see Brazilian front row?

We like the backline a lot more than last outing, for obvious reasons. Conrad off the bench will be a big one to watch of course, as will leaving Oliver out and having JC not starting.

What we're really wanting to see is clinical destruction. Nothing fancy, just good old-fashioned percentages rugby. It's what was lacking at the 3/4 mark in Melbourne, and what will be required come World Cup time.

All Blacks:
Tony Woodock, Kevin Mealamu, Carl Hayman, Keith Robinson, Chris Jack, Reuben Thorne, Ritchie McCaw, Rodney So'oialo, Piri Weepu, Dan Carter, Sitiveni Sivivatu, Luke McAlister, Isaia Toeava, Doug Howlett, Mils Muliaina Reserves Neemia Tialata, Jerry Collins, Chris Masoe, Brendon Leanard, Conrad Smith, Nick Evans, Andrew Hore

Springboks:
JP Pietersen, Breyton Paulse, Waylon Murray, Wynand Olivier, Jaco Pretorius, Derick Hougaard, Ruan Pienaar, Jacques Cronje, Pedrie Wannenburg, Wikus van Heerden, Johann Muller (captain), Albert van den Berg, Jannie du Plessis, Bismarck du Plessis, CJ van der Linde.
Reserves Gary Botha, Eddie Andrews, Gerrie Britz, Hilton Lobberts, Michael Claassens, Peter Grant, Tonderai Chavhanga