12 Nov 2009

Hansen says new backs have come together well

11:49 am on 12 November 2009

The All Blacks will have a new-look backline when they play Italy in Milan on Sunday morning with three Test debutants.

Centre Tamati Ellison gets his first Test, Mike Delany's at first five and the other debutant Ben Smith is on the right wing.

The backs coach Steve Hansen says they've come together quickly and have been really tight. It's their opportunity and the trio are really excited by it.

Hansen says Luke McAlister, who played in the 27-6 win over Italy in June at Christchurch, will probably take the goal kicks to ease the pressure on Delany.