All Blacks set to ring changes for Italy

STEPPING UP: Cory Jane in action during Hurricanes training last season.

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All Blacks

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The All Blacks look like they could make as many as 12 changes to their side to play Italy with run-on debuts likely for Mike Delaney and Ben Smith.

They also look set to make one key positional change with Cory Jane looking like he'll get his first test run at fullback.

Indications from early training sessions here are that only props Neemia Tialata and Wyatt Crockett are likely to remain from the XV that ran on against Wales in Cardiff last weekend.

Wing Sitiveni Sivivatu is set for an immediate return from suspension while Wellington's Tamati Ellison should get the chance to form a new midfield with Luke McAlister.

Cantabrians Andy Ellis, at halfback, and Corey Flynn at hooker are both set for returns to the test scene after long spells.

Flynn's sixth test would be his first game for New Zealand since he broke his arm against Munster on last year's end-of-year tour.

There should also be a reprieve for flanker Liam Messam who could be back in the test side for the first time since being made a scapegoat following the season-opening loss to France in Dunedin.

The side looks likely to be captained by Rodney So'oialo from No 8.

So'oialo was working with a loose forward trio that included openside Tanerau Latimer and Messam on the blindside.

Delaney, the surprise tour selection from Bay of Plenty, looks like he might have won the first five position ahead of Stephen Donald, which would be a reverse of their Chiefs' status.

The team trained in bright sunshine in Milan without Dan Carter who was in England for his judiciary hearing.

- © Fairfax NZ News