Wallabies team to play the All Blacks
Greg Holmes, Jeremy Paul, Rodney Blake, Nathan Sharpe, Dan Vickerman (v-c), Rocky Elsom, Phil Waugh, Wycliff Palu, George Gregan (c), Stephen Larkham, Lote Tuqiri, Matt Giteau, Stirling Mortlock (v-c), Clyde Rathbone, Chris Latham
Reserves: Tai McIsaac, Al Baxter, Mark Chisholm, George Smith, Brett Sheehan, Mark Gerrard, Mat Rogers

Australia may be unable to regain the Bledisloe Cup following two defeats from as many starts against New Zealand in this year's competition, but a win at Eden Park on Saturday is a must if John Connolly's team is to prevent the Kiwis also taking the Tri-Nations.

Connolly has handed both Waugh and Clyde Rathbone their first starting berths of the season, in place of Smith and Mark Gerrard at openside flanker and on the wing respectively, while Jeremy Paul returns at hooker ahead of Tai McIsaac.

"There were some very tough selection decisions, particularly in the back row, but we feel that Phil Waugh deserves his opportunity in the starting team," Connolly said.

"George Smith has been very good for us throughout the season and is one of the world's best in his position, but we are very keen to see what Phil can bring to the mix."

"The wing was also very contentious and there has been nothing between the outside backs throughout the season."

Questions were again asked about the merit of skipper George Gregan retaining his place as starting halfback after the recent 9-13 loss to the All Blacks, but he remains as captain and in the No.9, with Brett Sheehan taking over from the injured Sam Cordingley as Gregan's understudy.

The All Blacks have not lost at Eden Park since the Wallabies beat them there 20 years ago, and have also won the past four matches between the Trans-Tasman rivals, but Connolly is confident his men can turn the tables.

"We were very close but you need to take all of your opportunities against New Zealand. They give you very little," Connolly added of the recent loss Australia suffered at Brisbane's Suncorp Stadium.

"We've had a good preparation in Canberra but the fact remains that the All Blacks have won their last 20 Tests at home. It's going to be a massive challenge for us and one which the players are looking forward to."