Exciting winger Waisake Naholo returns to the All Blacks for their Rugby World Cup match against Georgia in Cardiff, 11 weeks after fracturing his leg in his Test debut.
Naholo was the top try-scorer in this year's Super Rugby competition, crossing 13 times for the Highlanders on their way to the title. But he limped off with a cracked fibula after 50 minutes in July's Rugby Championship match against Argentina.
"We're looking forward to seeing Waisake back on the track, he's been jumping out of his skin at training and I'm sure he can't wait for game day," All Blacks coach Steve Hansen said.
The All Blacks are expecting a tough physical contest up front against Georgia, and are looking to up the intensity with only one pool match remaining, against Tonga next week in Newcastle.
Hansen says the New Zealand selectors think they've picked the best 23 players for the match at Millennium Stadium on Friday night (Saturday morning AEST).
But four players weren't considered because of injury: Ma'a Nonu (shoulder), Colin Slade (hamstring), Liam Messam (calf) and Beauden Barrett (whiplash).
Hansen said with only one fit five-eighth available, TJ Perenara would cover for Dan Carter off the bench if needed.
"While it's disappointing to have Beauden, Colin, Ma'a and Liam unavailable for selection, their injuries are minor and they're all expected to be available for selection next week," the coach said.
"This game gives us an opportunity to build on our previous performances against an opposition who have proven to be very physical in their two matches.
"Although we don't know a lot about them, we know enough.
"They're big, strong athletes and should contribute to what will be a great occasion at Millennium Stadium."
It will be the All Blacks' first match against Georgia, who are coached by New Zealander Milton Haig, despite the former Soviet republic having played in three previous World Cups.
Centre Conrad Smith will play his 90th Test, having started in 85 of them.
All Blacks: Ben Smith, Waisake Naholo, Julian Savea, Conrad Smith, Sonny Bill Williams, Julian Savea, Dan Carter, Aaron Smith, Kieran Read, Richie McCaw (capt), Jerome Kaino, Sam Whitelock, Brodie Retallick, Charlie Faumuina, Dane Coles, Wyatt Crockett. Res: Keven Mealamu, Tony Woodcock, Owen Franks, Victor Vito, Sam Cane, Tawera Kerr Barlow, TJ Perenara, Malakai Fekitoa.
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