Admittedly, the defending champions would be lucky to be considered as favourites this time round. There is constant talk of invaluable experience within the team, but executing their game plan confidently and successfully is what really matters.

The Wallabies have opted for an almost twin-engined forward pack with a five-two forwards/backs reserves bench, unlike the traditional four-three substitution.

This indicates a massive showdown at the breakdown, with two extremely strong packs battling for supremacy led by what should be an incredible tussle between All Blacks captain Richie McCaw – far and away the world’s best openside flanker - and evergreen workhorse George Smith, who might indeed have something to say in his 100th Test.

Deans has also gone for genuine speed in the backline, where dangermen Lachie Turner, Drew Mitchell and even Adam-Ashley Cooper, who is no slouch for a big guy, pose a formidable threat to the untried and untested but electrifying All Blacks back three.

I'm talking about arguably the world’s best fullback Mils Muliaina, spectacular world-class winger Sitiveni Sivivatu and former Sevens specialist Corey Jane, whose fine all-round skills have seen him oust the flamboyant Joe Rokocoko to occupy the other wing.

‘Roks’ may even consider himself fortunate to be on the bench as his game has been seriously lacking its usual punch and finesse. The coaches may have given up hope yet decided to give him the benefit of the doubt, although on form I’d have chosen Hosea Gear instead.

The All Blacks should also be wary of Australian-born but Auckland-raised James O’Connor sitting on the Wallabies’ bench. Christian Cullen and Carlos Spencer were his idols as a kid, but since he’s now donned enemy colours, don’t be surprised if he plays like his heroes combined!

There will be plenty of fireworks all over the park, with interesting match-ups not to mention the mere presence of those buffalo guys in the front row.

You can add to that the likes of tag-team Rodney So’oialo and Jerome Kaino facing off with similar tough nuts Wycliff Palu and Richard Brown, while hard man Brad Thorn will have his hands full dealing with his nemesis James Horwill.

And powerhouse Ma’a Nonu and smooth operator Conrad Smith will surely run rings around Berrick Barnes and Stirling Mortlock if given space.

Cheeky halfbacks Jimmy Cowan and Luke Burgess should keep the scrums and rucks a pretty torrid affair, but then you have nuggety hookers Keven Mealamu and Tatafu Polota-Nau coming off the bench like piranhas.  

The strength of the All Blacks bench will go into overdrive once X-factors McAlister and Piri Weepu are given instructions prior to their introductions.

As far as being sensible and realistic in this particular Test is concerned, it was a wise decision to pick chief playmaker Donald. But seriously, there was just no other alternative.

I admire the skills of McAlister but even he would declare himself ‘unfit’ to take on the role of facing Matt Giteau, the most dangerous No.10 around at the moment.

Dan Carter, the leading pivot in world rugby, would no doubt be kicking himself at not being able to take part due to his frustrating injury. But his misfortune is perhaps a golden opportunity for Donald to stamp his mark.

I myself had reservations about the Chiefs navigator, who I thought was never up to Test standard. But I will be glad to eat humble pie if he can prove me wrong.

Not so long ago, Stephen Brett was destined for good things but too many chinks began to appear in his armour as the Super 14 progressed this year.

However, there’s no doubt his time will come. Let’s hope that the three wise men will not live to regret not promoting Brett sooner.

The Bledisloe Cup clashes continue to be eagerly anticipated and this fixture promises to be another awesome Trans-Tasman brutal encounter.

My mind is ticking that the Wallabies might win, but my heart believes the All Blacks can do it.

Prediction: All Blacks by 10, with Ma'a Nonu man-of-the-match.