Sonny Parker, Shane Williams and Brent Cockbain all return from injury to the starting line-up, which also sees Tom Shanklin – who staked his claim for a place with four tries against Romania – start on the wing.
Shanklin fills the gap vacated by Rhys Williams, who is currently recovering from a gastric problem, on the wing and his move from centre allows Parker to return to partner Gavin Henson.
On the other wing Shane Williams returns for Hal Luscombe who is unavailable after injuring a knee last week.
The final change comes in the second row with fit-again Brent Cockbain benefiting from the absence of Luke Charteris, who has been ruled out with a toe injury.
Gareth Llewellyn retains his spot in the second row but switches shirt numbers giving Cockbain his preferred number four jersey.
On the bench Ryan Jones also makes a comeback from injury
“As ever the rationale is first and foremost to select a team, and in particular combinations within the team, that can be effective against the current opposition,” said Ruddock.
“We are delighted to have Shane, Brent and Sonny available after injury and we believe we have selected the best side from the players available.
“It’s also good to have Ryan Jones back in the 22 as there is no doubt he could offer us a big ball carrying presence if required from the bench.
“I will be encouraging this team to play in a similar manner to the last two matches in which we attempted to play with tempo and continuity to the fore.
“The task ahead is a massive one. New Zealand are such a talented and extremely well coached team, they have match winners throughout their side and exceptional pace.
“Dan Carter was extremely impressive in the Italy game last week, as was Richie McCaw and we know all about the power of their pack and their explosive back three.
“It’s one mighty challenge to take on the All Blacks, particularly given our record over the last fifty years, but we have to aim high. We will be doing our utmost to win the game even though we start as the underdogs – Wales have not beaten New Zealand since 1953.
“My challenge to my players is to put themselves in the history books this Saturday.”
WALES:
Gareth Thomas (Capt)
Tom Shanklin
Sonny Parker
Gavin Henson
Shane Williams
Stephen Jones
Dwayne Peel
Gethin Jenkins
Mefin Davies
Adam Jones
Brent Cockbain
Gareth Llewellyn
Dafydd Jones
Colin Charvis
Michael Owen
REPLACEMENTS:
Steve Jones
Duncan Jones
Ryan Jones
Martyn Williams
Gareth Cooper
Ceri Sweeney
TBC
