Teams for Tri Nations round 5: Wallabies vs All Blacks

Having reached the half-way point in the 2009 Tri Nations, we return on Saturday with the Wallabies hosting the All Blacks in a crucial match in Sydney. This Bledisloe Cup match is a must-win for both teams, as whoever loses can kiss their chances in the tournament goodbye. Both sides have a point to prove after unconvincing starts to the Tri Nations, and even their respective Prime Ministers have gotten into the act with a friendly bet on the outcome of the match: the loser has agreed to wear the official tie of the opposition on Monday!

Wallabies team

The Wallabies will be without talismanic captain Stirling Mortlock who was injured in their last game against the Springboks. But James O'Connor is a tremendously exciting prospect and seems very comfortable in the test environment. The team is also bolstered by the timely return of Rocky Elsom, who will no doubt make his presence felt around the pitch.

15. James O'Connor
14. Lachie Turner
13. Adam Ashley-Cooper
12. Berrick Barnes
11. Drew Mitchell
10. Matt Giteau
9. Luke Burgess
8. Richard Brown
7. George Smith (captain)
6. Rocky Elsom
5. Nathan Sharpe
4. James Horwill
3. Al Baxter
2. Stephen Moore
1. Benn Robinson

Replacements: Tatafu Polota-Nau, Benn Alexander, Dean Mumm, David Pocock, Will Genia, Ryan Cross, Peter Hynes.

All Blacks team

The All Blacks welcome Dan Carter back at flyhalf, and will be hoping he can put them back on the front foot. It's a lot to ask from one player, but if anyone can deliver, he can!

15. Mils Muliaina
14. Joe Rokocoko
13. Conrad Smith
12. Luke McAlister
11. Sitiveni Sivivatu
10. Dan Carter
9. Jimmy Cowan
8. Kieran Read
7. Richie McCaw (captain)
6. Jerome Kaino
5. Isaac Ross
4. Brad Thorn
3. Owen Franks
2. Andrew Hore
1. Tony Woodcock

Replacements: Aled de Malmanche, John Afoa, Jason Eaton, Rodney So'oialo, Brendon Leonard, Stephen Donald, Ma'a Nonu.

Kick-off is at 8pm Australian time (11am GMT).