Whitelock to lead ABs

CARDIFF: One captain down and out but a gamebreaking winger back in.

The good medical news cancelled out the bad as far as the All Blacks were concerned ahead of tomorrow’s test against Wales in Cardiff.

Skipper Kieran Read’s hopes of playing were dashed by a back injury suffered yesterday and his dual role is effectively picked up by a pair of brothers.

Veteran lock Sam Whitelock will be captain for the first time while Luke Whitelock takes over the No 8 duties.

The younger sibling’s introduction for his first test start is one of three changes, all in the forwards, to the side which ran out for the 2217 win over Scotland on Sunday.

Liam Squire replaces Vaea Fifita on the blindside flank while Patrick Tuipulotu takes over from the injured Luke Romano (foot) at lock. Tuipulotu’s promotion leaves Scott Barrett on the bench.

While 109test veteran Read’s absence will be keenly felt, his loss is effectively countered by the availability of Rieko Ioane.

The worldclass winger was ruled out last Sunday because of a shoulder joint injury suffered during his standout performance at Murrayfield.

A rapid recovery and a problemfree training session yesterday gave 20year old Ioane an unexpected green light.

Coach Steve Hansen was philosophical about the loss of Read.

‘‘Whilst it’s disappointing to lose your leader and a guy who’s played 100odd test matches, you can’t do anything about it, so there’s no need for me to sit here and get all emotional.’’ — NZN