27 Sep 2013

Hansen says Coles must be looked after

6:37 am on 27 September 2013

The All Blacks coach Steve Hansen says the decision to drop hooker Dane Coles for Sunday's Rugby Championship clash with Argentina is no reflection on the way he's playing.

Andrew Hore will play his 80th test, replacing Coles in the starting line-up, while Keven Mealamu is in the reserves.

That is one of two changes from the side that beat the Springboks with first five eighth Aaron Cruden replacing the injured Dan Carter.

Hansen says they're very happy with where Coles is at and with his performances of late.

However like a lot of the young players, they're also mindful of managing their game time as part of their development.

Meanwhile Hansen says they've picked a strong side as beating Argentina this weekend is essential if they're to retain the Rugby Championship title.