All Blacks flyhalf Aaron Cruden has been recalled to the national squad ahead of the Test against the Wallabies in Brisbane.

Cruden missed the Tests against Argentina and South Africa due to suspension, but is expected to feature against Australia next Saturday. The All Blacks could be further boosted by the return of Wyatt Crockett and Brodie Retallick, who both missed the clash against the Springboks at Ellis Park.

The injury to Tawera Kerr-Barlow in that match has opened the door for Augustine Pulu, who will now join the squad as the third scrumhalf. Pulu is yet to play for the All Blacks.

Sonny Bill Williams was not included, although it's believed that he will make the cut when Steve Hansen announces his squad for the November tour of Europe.

Ben Smith has been rested for the game against the Wallabies but will be back in the mix for the end-of-year tour.

All Blacks squad – Dane Coles, Nathan Harris, Keven Mealamu, Wyatt Crockett, Charlie Faumuina, Ben Franks, Owen Franks, Joe Moody, Brodie Retallick, Jeremy Thrush, Patrick Tuipulotu, Sam Whitelock, Sam Cane, Jerome Kaino, Steven Luatua, Richie McCaw (c), Liam Messam, Kieran Read, TJ Perenara, Augustine Pulu, Aaron Smith, Aaron Cruden, Beauden Barrett, Colin Slade, Ryan Crotty, Conrad Smith, Malakai Fekitoa, Israel Dagg, Cory Jane, Charles Piutau, Julian Savea.

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