Nonu back for Bok clash

Wellington - Centre Ma'a Nonu has been recalled for his first All Blacks match of the season in one of four changes for Saturday's first Tri-Nations Test against South Africa in Auckland.

Nonu is one of three backline changes made by coach Graham Henry to the side who beat Wales 29-10 in Hamilton last month.

Owen Franks comes back in at tighthead prop in place of Neemia Tialata while 62-Test veteran Joe Rokocoko returns at left wing.

Nonu, who has 46 All Blacks appearances to his name, has played just 70 minutes of club rugby since injuring his knee in a Super 14 match on May 14.

"The Springboks are the defending Tri-Nations champions and, like us, will be keen to kick off their campaign on a winning note," said Henry.

"However, our squad has prepared well and the players are excited by the first up challenge this weekend. It's going to be a massive kick-off to the competition."

Saturday's game will mark 90 years to the day that the All Blacks first played at Eden Park.

Teams:

New Zealand:

15. Mils Muliaina, 14. Cory Jane, 13. Conrad Smith, 12. Ma’a Nonu, 11. Joe Rokocoko, 10. Dan Carter, 9. Jimmy Cowan, 8. Kieran Read, 7. Richie McCaw (captain), 6. Jerome Kaino, 5. Tom Donnelly, 4. Brad Thorn, 3. Owen Franks, 2. Keven Mealamu, 1. Tony Woodcock

Substitutes: 16. Corey Flynn, 17. Ben Franks, 18. Samuel Whitelock, 19. Liam Messam, 20. Piri Weepu, 21. Aaron Cruden, 22. Richard Kahui

Springboks:

TBA