Richie McCaw will captain New Zealand for their World Cup semi-final clash against Australia on Sunday.

The 30-year-old has been struggling with a persistent foot injury throughout the tournament, but he has been passed fit for the match at Eden Park.

Meanwhile, Aaron Cruden comes into the side at fly-half in place of the injured Colin Slade, and Israel Dagg will start at full-back for the sidelined Mils Muliaina.

Sonny Bill Williams drops to the bench, which allows Richard Kahui to start on the left-wing.

The two sides last met at this stage in 2003 when Australia came out on top against their southern hemisphere rivals.

New Zealand: Israel Dagg; Cory Jane, Conrad Smith, Ma'a Nonu, Richard Kahui; Aaron Cruden, Piri Weepu; Tony Woodcock, Keven Mealamu, Owen Franks, Samuel Whitelock, Brad Thorn, Jerome Kaino, Richie McCaw (captain), Kieran Read

Replacements: Andrew Hore, Ben Franks, Ali Williams, Victor Vito, Andy Ellis, Stephen Donald, Sonny Bill Williams