More woe for All Blacks

New Zealand have been dealt another major blow as Leon MacDonald will be missing from their Tri-Nations match with Australia.

In what has been a disappointing Tri-Nations campaign so far, the All Blacks will be desperate to avoid a third straight defeat but will have to do without the 30-year-old full-back, who has pulled out with concussion.

MacDonald is the latest injury problem for the Kiwis who already have doubts surrounding Andrew Hore, Jimmy Cowan and Andy Ellis although skipper Richie McCaw returns to the side.

"We've made some tactical changes in our selections, but we also need to change how we play," said the All Blacks coach Graham Henry. "Clearly there are areas we need to improve on from Sydney. We have to have the right game plan and execution."

Australia, who secured a 34-19 win over New Zealand in Sydney last week, will welcome back captain Stirling Mortlock and experienced flanker Phil Waugh in place of Ryan Cross and the injured Rocky Elsom.

The Wallabies will secure the Bledisloe Cup for the first time since 2003 should they win Saturday's return match.