Howlett and Woodcock make ’05 debuts

Thursday, March 10, 2005 NZPA

All Blacks Doug Howlett and Tony Woodcock will make their first Rebel Sport Super 12 rugby appearances of the season for the Blues against the Chiefs on Saturday.

Howlett pushes right winger Isakela Nacewa to the reserve bench while Woodcock's introduction means there is no place in the 22 for loosehead prop Saimone Taumoepeau.

Halfback Steve Devine will make his first start of the competition ahead of David Gibson, as will hooker Derren Witcombe, who usurps All Blacks rake Keven Mealamu.

Ben Atiga is still sidelined with a hamstring strain, meaning usual first or second five-eighth Luke McAlister will start again at centre.

Team:

Mils Muliaina, Doug Howlett, Luke McAlister, Sam Tuitupou, Joe Rokocoko, Carlos Spencer, Steve Devine, Xavier Rush (captain), Daniel Braid, Angus MacDonald, Ali Williams, Greg Rawlinson, John Afoa, Derren Witcombe, Tony Woodcock. Reserves: Keven Mealamu, Taufa'ao Filise, Bradley Mika, Justin Collins, David Gibson, Tasesa Lavea, Isa Nacewa.