Preview of Italy v New Zealand

Powerhouse New Zealand travel to Milan to face Italy in what promises to be a historic occasion on Saturday.

The All Blacks are accustomed to playing in front of huge crowds and that will be the case at the San Siro, where an Italian rugby record 77,000 tickets have been sold.

‘We need to play our natural game and not be overawed by the surroundings,’ said All Blacks' half-back Andy Ellis.

‘We've got a lot of new guys but really excited guys who want to prove their point. There's going to be real excitement and enthusiasm and a chance to do well and make a bit of a mark.’

Ellis, who is returning to action after a year out with injuries, will form a new halves combination with Mike Delany, who is making his debut.

Ben Smith and Tamati Elison will also make their bows for the All Blacks.

Italy have not beaten New Zealand in 10 previous attempts.

Nick Mallett's Italian side lost 27-6 in Christchurch five months ago but only three players who appeared in that game against the Azzurri have been included in New Zealand's starting XV.

‘We want to improve on that performance,’ said Italy centre Mirco Bergamasco, ‘to begin this international spell in the best possible way.

‘We have studied the All Blacks and we know how to make life difficult for them even though they are the second best team (behind South Africa) in the world.

‘We will need to be at our best in every facet of our game.

‘We will not go out on the pitch already defeated but ready to win the game.’

Bergamasco believes that regardless of the result, tomorrow's game will be one for the history books.

‘It's going to be a great event for our country's sport,’ said Bergamasco. ‘Not only for rugby.

‘We are looking forward to the game and we are concentrated.

‘We are working on facing the All Blacks with great determination and confidence in our rugby.

‘To have almost 80,000 fans at the San Siro on our side will be crucial and an added motivation to do well.’

Craig Gower and Tito Tebaldi will make their home debuts for the Azzurri on Saturday while forward

Antonio Del Fava will replace injured Marco Bortolami in the Italy squad.