All Blacks coach Steve Hansen says the Wallabies' bold move to start both star openside flankers - David Pocock and Michael Hooper - provides weaknesses to exploit in the Rugby Championship decider in Sydney.
Wallabies coach Michael Cheika has opted to play Pocock out of position at Number 8 in order to get both loose forwards in the starting line-up, which suggests they hope to run the All Blacks off the park.
Hansen said he was half expecting the ploy, especially after his team struggled at the breakdown and conceded turnovers in their last-start win over South Africa.
In that game, the Springboks started two loose forward ball scavengers - Heinrich Brussow and Schalk Burger.
All Blacks coach Steve Hansen and captain Richie McCaw discuss tactics ahead of Saturday's decider. Photo: Photosport
"It's not a surprise is it, particularly after what the Boks did last week," he said.
"They were particularly good with their two fetchers on the track. They caused us problems for a while, so I don't think you needed to be a rocket scientist to work out [Cheika] would probably go with that."
"Whilst that gives [the Wallabies] strength in some areas it probably weakens them in others.
"So we've just got to make sure we take advantage of those weaknesses and make sure that we don't allow them to have a field day at the breakdown."
Cheika has also dropped hulking lock Will Skelton to the reserves, bringing in the more mobile Dean Mumm.
Matt Giteau returns from injury for his first start against the All Blacks in four years.
The 93-Test veteran will partner Tevita Kuridrani in the Wallabies' midfield.
Matt Giteau will play his first test against the All Blacks in four years. Photo: Photosport
Drew Mitchell will get his first opportunity in the Wallabies starting 15 this season, joining Adam Ashley-Cooper and Israel Folau in the Wallabies back three.
Scott Sio will make his run-on debut at loosehead prop after a couple of test appearances from the reserves bench in Brisbane and Mendoza, and a strong training camp.
