Dan Carter has been recalled to the New Zealand squad and is poised to win his 100th cap in this winter's Test against England.

The Crusaders fly-half missed the end of the All Blacks' triumphant Investec Rugby Championship campaign with a shoulder injury, but is fit to return for their European tour, which begins next month.

Following a match against Japan in Tokyo, New Zealand visit Paris to play France and then face England on November 17 at Twickenham, where Carter could bring up a century of international appearances.

Four uncapped players join the 31-year-old in the 36-man squad – prop Joe Moody, lock Dominic Bird, back-rower Luke Whitelock, and winger Frank Halai.

Carter's club teammate Matt Todd is not available due to a chest problem, but Steve Hansen has taken a chance on the fitness of Luke Romano, who is close to recovering from his adductor tendon injury.

Written by
Joe Fish