All Blacks leave out duo

Henry: Frustration

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New Zealand have dropped loosehead prop Wyatt Crockett and winger Hosea Gear from the squad to face South Africa in the Tri-Nations.

The All Blacks were forced to leave the two men behind as only 28 of the 30-man squad were allowed to travel for the matches, which will take place in Bloemfontein on Saturday and in Durban on August 1.

After their victory in the opening match against Australia, coach Graham Henry admitted he was unhappy that he had to leave the duo behind.

"I don't understand the rules," he said. "It's something to do with money, I guess. We are frustrated we can only take 28."

Utility back Isaia Toeava was also withdrawn from the squad due to a stress fracture in his foot, so uncapped Wellington and Hurricanes utility Tamati Ellison takes his place.

Good progress

Meanwhile, fly-half Stephen Donald believes he is making good progress in the international game after his match-winning performance against Australia.

Donald, stepping in for the injured Dan Carter, kicked five penalties and a conversion in the 22-16 victory on Saturday and feels he is now starting to show that he can succeed in the number 10 shirt.

"I guess it's miles on the clock at international level," he said. "I guess every week I've just tried to build. I learnt a fair bit out there.

"I'm fairly happy. As an individual, you always want to front up and know you've got a bit of character about you."

New Zealand squad: Mils Muliaina, Joe Rokocoko, Sitiveni Sivivatu, Cory Jane, Conrad Smith, Ma'a Nonu, Luke McAlister, Tamati Ellison, Stephen Donald, Jimmy Cowan, Brendon Leonard, Piri Weepu, Rodney So'oialo, Kieran Read, Jerome Kaino, Richie McCaw (captain), Tanerau Latimer, Jason Eaton, Bryn Evans, Isaac Ross, Brad Thorn, Neemia Tialata, Tony Woodcock, Owen Franks, John Afoa, Keven Mealamu, Andrew Hore, Aled de Malmanche.