Despite wrapping up their June Test series unbeaten, All Blacks selectors have taken the axe to their squad as they turn their sights to the Tri-Nations series.

Labelling the Tri-Nations "the big boys' league", the selectors dropped four players from the squad who beat Ireland once and Wales twice in the past three weeks.

An improved performance was demanded going into the tougher series against South Africa and Australia, said head coach Graham Henry.

"The Tri-Nations is the most difficult international competition in the world ... so there'll be a step up for sure," he said.

Aled de Malmanche, Neemia Tialata, Adam Thomson and Zac Guildford were all sacrificed after playing in Saturday's 29-10 second Test win over Wales which followed the 42-9 win in the first Test and a 66-28 victory over Ireland.

In the forwards, prop John Afoa, hooker Corey Flynn and flanker Liam Messam have been recalled while in the backs Ma'a Nonu returns to inside centre following his recovery from injury.

Lock Sam Whitelock and winger Rene Ranger, who were in the squad as injury cover for the All Blacks during the June Tests, have been retained.

Players not considered because of injury include flyhalves Mike Delany and Stephen Donald, locks Ali Williams and Jason Eaton, hooker Andrew Hore, wing Sitiveni Sivivatu and utility back Isaia Toeava.

Henry tempered his appraisal of the All Blacks form in the June Tests saying he was "pretty pleased" and believed the side played better during this period than they did at the same time last year.

In 2009 the All Blacks had a dismal Tri-Nations in which they lost all three Tests against South Africa, a record they are desperate not to repeat.

The first Tri-Nations Test in Auckland next month also offers the winner an added psychological advantage going into next year's World Cup.

"Now we step up into the big boys' league," said forwards coach Steve Hansen.

"I think we can go in there with some confidence as long as we keep it smart and keep it simple and people do their job."

All Blacks Squad:

Forwards: John Afoa, Anthony Boric, Tom Donnelly, Corey Flynn, Ben Franks, Owen Franks, Jerome Kaino, Richie McCaw (capt), Keven Mealamu, Liam Messam, Kieran Read, Brad Thorn, Victor Vito, Samuel Whitelock, Tony Woodcock.

Backs: Daniel Carter, Jimmy Cowan, Aaron Cruden, Israel Dagg, Cory Jane, Richard Kahui, Mils Muliaina, Ma'a Nonu, Rene Ranger, Josevata Rokocoko, Conrad Smith, Benson Stanley, Piri Weepu.

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