9 Nov 2008

All Blacks prepare to up level after sweeping past Scots

6:27 pm on 9 November 2008

The All Blacks are set to return to something closer to a first-choice line-up for next weekend's clash with Ireland in Dublin after sweeping Scotland aside in the opening leg of their Grand Slam tour.

Even with Richie McCaw and Dan Carter confined to the bench until late in the game and three debutants in their starting line-up, the All Blacks had too much class for a Scotland side that emerged from a 32-6 defeat feeling it had played well.

Henry says next week's team hasn't been chosen yet but it's fair to say there will be some changes.

Although he praised the way Scotland played Henry regards Ireland as a much tougher test after their 55-0 win over Canada and narrow losses in New Zealand and Australia last winter.

Fullback Isaia Toeava could be doubtful after being replaced at half-time with a shoulder injury while replacement scrum-half Andy Ellis suffered a new rib injury which will have to be monitored.