Daniel Carter is one step closer to a Test recall after being named in New Zealand's recent 26-man squad.

Carter, in his third provincial game back after recovering from a ruptured Achilles tendon, impressed again for Canterbury, kicking 19 points in their 46-13 Air New Zealand Cup win against Waikato in Christchurch on Friday.

His performances have eased any doubt in All Blacks coach Graham Henry's mind that the star pivot is ready for a return to the international fold and there will be many hoping to see the 59-Test veteran back in the black number 10 jersey against the Wallabies.

Whether he gets a start will finally be revealed on Tuesday when Henry names his team but Stephen Donald, who has filled the role in his absence, will undoubtedly be feeling the pressure after mixed performances in Carter's absence.

Henry's patience with under-performing Neemia Tialata has run out though with the big front-rower dumped from the squad and replaced with Wyatt Crockett who did not make the trip to South Africa.

Piri Weepu has also been ruled out after rolling his ankle during the one-day training camp in Auckland on Wednesday.

Wing Hosea Gear, who was not wanted for the Tests in South Africa, has again missed out with Henry persisting with Joe Rokocoko.

Gear's Wellington team-mate utility back Tamati Ellison remains with the group as cover for the injured Isaia Toeava.

New Zealand squad: Forwards - Richie McCaw (capt), John Afoa, Wyatt Crockett, Aled de Malmanche, Jason Eaton, Owen Franks, Andrew Hore, Jerome Kaino, Tanerau Latimer, Kieran Read, Isaac Ross, Rodney So'oialo, Brad Thorn, Tony Woodcock.

Backs - Daniel Carter, Jimmy Cowan, Stephen Donald, Cory Jane, Brendon Leonard, Luke McAlister, Mils Muliaina, Ma'a Nonu, Joe Rokocoko, Sitiveni Sivivatu, Conrad Smith, Tamati Ellison.