ZPA - The All Blacks retained just four players in their starting team to meet South Africa in the Tri Nations Test in Port Elizabeth on Saturday.

Winger Hosea Gear, flanker Jerome Kaino, lock Ali Williams and hooker Keven Mealamu are the only players remaining from the side that ran out for the 30-14 victory over the Wallabies at Eden Park 11 days ago.

Coach Graham Henry recalled a string of fringe players for a late chance to press their claims for his World Cup squad against a Springboks side stung by last Saturday's loss to Australia in Durban.

Prop Tony Woodcock, centre Richard Kahui, wing Isaia Toeava and fullback Israel Dagg return from injury for their first Tests of the season.

Kahui will partner Sonny Bill Williams, who is promoted from the bench to the centres.

Colin Slade gets his second Test start in place of rested star flyhalf Daniel Carter.

Prop John Afoa, lock Sam Whitelock, loose forwards Adam Thomson and Liam Messam and halfback Jimmy Cowan are the other changes to the team, with Mealamu named skipper as Richie McCaw also rests up back in New Zealand.

Henry said the All Blacks had had a great build-up at Port Elizabeth and the team felt refreshed and raring to go.

"There is excitement across the board in the squad and every player will be looking to put in a big performance this weekend," he said.

"Playing the Springboks at home is always a massive occasion and with rugby World Cup spots also up for grabs, our players will be looking to put in a big performance.

"We know we will also be facing a wounded Springboks side (after losing to Australia last weekend) who will want to bounce back from their three losses on the trot so we will have to be ready for a huge physical contest."

The All Blacks selectors are to name their squad for the World Cup in Brisbane next Tuesday.

New Zealand: Israel Dagg, Isaia Toeava, Richard Kahui, Sonny Bill Williams, Hosea Gear, Colin Slade, Jimmy Cowan, Liam Messam, Adam Thomson, Jerome Kaino, Ali Williams, Sam Whitelock, John Afoa, Keven Mealamu (capt), Tony Woodcock. Res: Andrew Hore, Ben Franks, Jarrad Hoeata, Victor Vito, Andy Ellis, Piri Weepu, Cory Jane.

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