Back Rower Chris Masoe will join the All Blacks squad in Wellington this week ahead of the first Philips Tri Nations match of 2008 against South Africa.
Masoe replaces injured All Blacks captain Richie McCaw for the two Tests against the Springboks with the back row set up to be reassessed before the matches against Australia later in July.
Chiefs’ lock Kevin O’Neill also joins the squad as cover for Ali Williams who is recovering from a sprained ankle. (quote)The medical staff is reasonably positive that Ali will be available this weekend, but it is sensible to have extra cover just in case,(end quote) said Henry.
Henry also confirmed loose forward Rodney So’oialo as the All Blacks captain in McCaw’s absence.