Naholo, Lienert-Brown to start for New Zealand in Wellington Test

New Zealand coach Steve Hansen has made two changes to the starting line-up for the second Test against British and Irish Lions that kicks-off on Saturday in Wellington.

Fiji born Waisake Naholo, who has already scored a try against the Lions during their 23-22 defeat against Highlanders has been named on the right wing in the place of Ben Smith, who is suffering from concussion. The inclusion of Naholo will also allow Israel Dagg to move to fullback, which was originally held by Ben in the Auckland game.

The other forced change will be Anton Lienert-Brown moving from bench to replace centre Ryan Crotty, who sustained a hamstring injury during the Eden Park encounter.

Ngani Laumape, who scored a 41st minute try for Hurricanes against the Lions on Tuesday has been named on the bench taking the place of Lienert-Brown.

Hansen expressed disappointment on the injuries to Smith and Crotty and is hopeful of the replacements making their opportunities count.

“While it's disappointing to lose both Ben Smith and Ryan Crotty, it creates an opportunity for others,” said Hansen.

'Izzy' (Israel Dagg) is a world-class back three player, as is Anton in the midfield, and both Waisake and Ngani are coming into the Test side following outstanding performances against the Lions for their respective Super franchises".

A win on Saturday will very much seal the series for the home side but Hansen is wary of the threat from Lions.

“Whilst we were happy with the win last weekend, we know that it was just a start, in what is a three-Test Series. That means the job is far from done. It's going to require us to take our game to a higher level. It's going to be very demanding, physically and mentally, on both sides.

“We're aware the British and Irish Lions have their backs to the wall and will chuck everything at us to keep themselves alive in the Series. They are a quality side who we respect immensely.

“In reality, last week's Test could've gone either way had they taken more of their chances.

New Zealand squad:

15. Israel Dagg, 14. Waisake Naholo, 13. Anton Lienert-Brown, 12. Sonny Bill Williams, 11. Rieko Ioane, 10. Beauden Barrett, 9. Aaron Smith, 1. Joe Moody, 2. Codie Taylor, 3. Owen Franks, 4. Brodie Retallick, 5. Samuel Whitelock, 6. Jerome Kaino, 7. Sam Cane, 8. Kieran Read

Replacements:

16. Nathan Harris, 17. Wyatt Crockett, 18. Charlie Faumuina, 19. Scott Barrett, 20. Ardie Savea. 21. TJ Perenara, 22. Aaron Cruden, 23. Ngani Laumape