9 Aug 2019

Rugby: All Blacks, Black Ferns match previews

From Morning Report, 8:41 am on 9 August 2019

Ardie Savea will start at blindside flanker against Australia in Perth on Saturday night.

After 36 tests its the first time the Hurricanes star, an openside flanker, will start in the number six jersey.

Its the second big positional change unveiled by coach Steve Hansen ahead of the World Cup in Japan next month.

Last month he shifted Beauden Barrett from first-five to fullback to make room for Richie Mo'unga.

And, in the other key trans-Tasman test match this weekend, the Black Ferns will field a team steeped in experience when they seek to preserve their perfect women's rugby record against the Wallaroos.

To preview the double header, RNZ's rugby reporter Joe Porter talks to Susie Ferguson.