Richie McCaw will become the first All Black to play 100 Test matches after being named as captain of the side to play Japan in Hamilton on Friday.
Coach Graham Henry has made seven changes to the side which beat Tonga in the Rugby World Cup opener last week.
Mils Muliaina returns at fullback, Andy Ellis gets his first start of the year at halfback and Cory Jane starts on the right wing.
Loose forward Adam Thomson also returns from injury and Sam Whitelock replaces Ali Williams at lock.
Conrad Smith returns to partner Ma’a Nonu in the midfield and will play his 50th test.
Henry sang McCaw’s praises when the team was announced on Wednesday morning, saying 100 tests for the All Blacks was a “totally remarkable milestone”.
“Richie is a very special man. He provides inspiration to New Zealanders because of his total commitment, to enhancing the reputation of New Zealanders through the success of the All Black team.
“He is incredibly brave, skilful and a highly intelligent player who has the total respect of his team through the many deeds and successes he has achieved on the rugby field and his ability to lead from the front.”
New Zealand team to play Japan in Hamilton on Friday night: Mils Muliaina, Cory Jane, Conrad Smith, Ma’a Nonu, Richard Kahui, Dan Carter, Andy Ellis, Adam Thomson, Richie McCaw (c), Jerome Kaino, Sam Whitelock, Brad Thorn, Owen Franks, Keven Mealamu, Tony Woodcock. Reserves: Andrew Hore, John Afoa, Ali Williams, Victor Vito, Piri Weepu, Colin Slade, Sonny Bill Williams.
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