Aaron Cruden back in starting line-up for All Blacks

Fly-half Aaron Cruden has returned to the All Blacks’ starting side after recovering from a chest injury to face South Africa in the fourth round of the Rugby Championship at Wellington Regional Stadium on Saturday.

Cruden suffered the injury in the All Blacks’ 51-20 victory over Australia last month at Eden Park and coach Steve Hansen decided to rest the 25-year-old pivot for last week’s clash against Argentina.

Cruden’s absence allowed Beauden Barrett to make his first start at flyhalf in Napier where he impressed with his attacking instincts, tactical kicking and control of the match, though he had a poor night with his goalkicking, missing four shots.

Barrett has shifted to the bench for Saturday’s match with Colin Slade dropping out of the matchday squad of 23.

The All Blacks are the only unbeaten side in the Rugby Championship and Hansen said they were well aware the Springboks would be fired up after they lost 24-23 to the Wallabies in the last minute last week in Perth.

“This week we have to find a desperation and hunger in our performance because we know that that is something the South Africans will be bringing after their loss to Australia,” Hansen said in a statement. “As well they have already stated they have a desire to get a win against us.

“After two wonderful matches last year, I know our guys are really looking forward to this match.