TOKYO, 24 Oct - New Zealand have brought Scott Barrett into the starting line-up to take on England in the first semi-final of Rugby World Cup 2019 at International Stadium Yokohama on Saturday.

Barrett, who has scored two tries at RWC 2019, came on at half-time in the quarter-final against Ireland in place of Sam Cane and made an impressive contribution. Cane moves to the bench against England in the only change to the starting team that recorded a comprehensive 46-14 win in the quarter-final.

Ardie Savea moves to openside flanker for Barrett - who at 1.97m will offer another lineout option for New Zealand in this match - to take his place at six.

New Zealand captain Kieran Read has overcome a calf injury to take his usual number eight spot and earn his 126th cap, while Patrick Tuipulotu comes on to the bench as a second-row option in place of Matt Todd, who misses with a shoulder injury.

New Zealand coach Steve Hansen was keen to single out Codie Taylor, who will play his 50th test match for New Zealand on Saturday.

"On behalf of players and management we congratulate Codie on reaching this special milestone," Hansen said. "You couldn't ask for a better occasion to mark this. Let's hope the game lives up to the expectations that both teams will have and is one for the ages."

New Zealand

1. Joe Moody
2. Codie Taylor
3. Nepo Laulala
4. Brodie Retallick
5. Samuel Whitelock
6. Scott Barrett
7. Ardie Savea
8. Kieran Read (capt.)
9. Aaron Smith
10. Richie Mo'unga
11. George Bridge
12. Anton Lienert-Brown
13. Jack Goodhue
14. Sevu Reece
15. Beauden Barrett

16. Dane Coles
17. Ofa Tuungafasi
18. Angus Ta'avao
19. Patrick Tuipulotu
20. Sam Cane
21. TJ Perenara
22. Sonny Bill Williams
23. Jordie Barrett

RNS ajr