Pick the Score: All Blacks v Italy

I heard a commentator during the week musing as to why he hasn't detected any real criticism of the considerable change in the All Blacks run-on XV against Italy from that which faced Scotland.

In other words, why has rotation been largely approved of this time around?

I reckon the answer is simple and this exception proves the rule that says normally, rotation is illogical.

First, these northern hemisphere tours take place as our season is coming to a close with no more international rugby in store for six months or so.

That negates the need to foster cohesion by sticking to the same XV as is the commonsense tactic in the middle of our international season.

These tours also never form part of a series and invariably include at least two clashes against easy-beats.

So in these circumstances, to take 30 plus young men to the other side of the world and not give a solid chunk of them any run-on game time at all would make little sense.

This All Blacks XV to face Italy throws up some intriguing selections.

Like Beauden Barrett stepping up to replace Israel Dagg.

Like an ex-Manawatu half-back and first-five combination in Aaron Smith and Aaron Cruden plus a forward pack that contains four from the most dysfunctional franchise, the Blues.

And of course, the fascination of observing the wonderful Kieran Read as the starting captain.

So does Italy still deserve the title of easy-beats tonight?

On recent evidence, yes is my answer.

They pipped a mediocre Tongan outfit by 28 to 23 last weekend in Brescia and were way less than convincing.

Italy's coach, Jacques Brunel has made eight changes to the team that played Tonga, none of which appear to add much more fire-power.

Italy's captain, Sergio Parisse is a world-class No. 8 whose lead-by-example attitude always inspires his team as long as their skill-base allows.

That will ensure a typically fiery start from the Italians but after the All Blacks rebut that challenge, their superior power and pace will almost certainly decide the eventual outcome.

It's time to participate in a Pick the Score competition.

If you send in the first entry with the winner/loser and correct scoreline, I will send you a $100 Lone Star Cafe and Bar voucher.

One entry per person and entries will close at 2 am Sunday morning, our time with the test due to kick off in Rome at 3 am.