Ireland prepare for new All Blacks test

Published Thursday, 14 June 2012
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Ireland coach Declan Kidney has recalled Ulster's Andrew Trimble to the starting line-up for Saturday's second test against New Zealand.

Ireland prepare for new All Blacks test
Andrew Trimble in training this year (© Presseye)

Kidney has also brought in Kevin McLaughlin at blindside flanker.

Props Mike Ross and Cian Healy have passed fitness tests and join Rory Best in the front row while Fergus McFadden, scorer of Ireland's solitary try last week, retains his spot on the right wing.

Simon Zebo drops to defence as Ulster winger Trimble returns to the side.

Captain Brian O'Driscoll resumes his midfield partnership with Gordon D'Arcy, who comes in for the injured Keith Earls.

Rob Kearney starts at full-back while Kidney has resisted the temptation to pair Leinster half-backs Jonathan Sexton, who starts, and Eoin Reddan. Conor Murray retains the number nine jersey.

Dan Tuohy and Donnacha Ryan resume their second row partnership, with Kidney emphasising the Ulster man's proficiency at the line-out as the primary reason why Donncha O'Callaghan remains on the replacements' bench.

O'Driscoll said Ireland "are not playing here for second best" after their emphatic defeat by the All Blacks last week.

"Every time you pull on a Test jersey, irrespective of the occasion, it is special.

"This is no different. We are not playing here for second best."

The All Blacks have made two changes to their squad following the series-ending knee injury to Victor Vito.

Adam Thomson comes in at blindside flanker while the uncapped Sam Cane moves up to take his place on the bench.

© UTV News
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