New Zealand coach Graham Henry has named a full-strength side for Saturday's Tri-Nations decider against Australia.

Captain Richie McCaw and a host of front-line players including Dan Carter return for the game in Brisbane after being rested for last Saturday's loss to South Africa.

Also recalled are tighthead prop Owen Franks, second row Brad Thorn, and centre pairing Ma'a Nonu and Conrad Smith.

The only notable absentee is Jerome Kaino, who is rested after the South Africa match, allowing Adam Thomson to return to his favoured blindside flanker position after struggling in McCaw's openside spot against the Springboks.

"This is a tournament-defining match for the team," said coach Graham Henry.

"The winner wins the Tri Nations, it's as simple as that. Australia are a dangerous team to play and they will be looking to bounce back from the loss against us in Auckland, so we will have to play at our very best."

The All Blacks have beaten Australia in 11 of their last 12 meetings, and are favourites to win the World Cup for the second time when they host the tournament which runs from September 9-October 23.

New Zealand are in World Cup Pool A, alongside France, Tonga, Japan and Canada, whilst Australia are in Pool C with Ireland, Italy, Russia and the United States.

Team: 15-Mils Muliaina, 14-Cory Jane, 13-Conrad Smith, 12-Ma'a Nonu, 11-Zac Guildford, 10-Dan Carter, 9-Piri Weepu, 8-Kieran Read, 7-Richie McCaw (c), 6-Adam Thomson, 5-Samuel Whitelock, 4-Brad Thorn 3-Owen Franks, 2-Keven Mealamu, 1-Tony Woodcock

Replacements:

16-Andrew Hore, 17-John Afoa, 18-Ali Williams, 19-Victor Vito, 20-Andy Ellis, 21-Colin Slade, 22-Isaia Toeava

Reuters