All Blacks Coach Graham Henry and his Assistant Coaches Steve Hansen and Wayne Smith have confirmed the replacement player to join the All Blacks squad for the final Investec Tri Nations Test against Australia in Sydney on Saturday September 11 will be Colin Slade.

Slade replacies fellow Canterbury player Dan Carter who is recuperating following surgery on his right ankle.

Slade said: "It's every boy's dream to play for the All Blacks and although I haven't played for them yet, it is a step in the right direction.

"The way the Canterbury team has played lately has allowed me to do my thing on the field and I hope to take my opportunity with the All Blacks if I get it."

Slade, who was drafted into the All Blacks squad as injury cover in 2009, has played for Canterbury and the Crusaders and appeared for the New Zealand Barbarians against the New Zealand Maori in the opening game of the Sealord New Zealand Maori Centenary Series in June. He will assemble with the squad when it travels to Sydney on Sunday.

All Blacks Investec Tri Nations squad for Sydney:

Forwards: John Afoa, Anthony Boric, Tom Donnelly, Corey Flynn, Ben Franks, Owen Franks, Jerome Kaino, Richie McCaw, Keven Mealamu, Kieran Read, Brad Thorn, Victor Vito, Samuel Whitelock and Tony Woodcock.

Backs: Jimmy Cowan, Aaron Cruden, Israel Dagg, Cory Jane, Mils Muliaina, Ma’a Nonu, Rene Ranger, Josevata Rokocoko, Colin Slade, Conrad Smith, Benson Stanley and Piri Weepu.